Minnesota's first Cane Quest brought together students, families, teachers, orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, and volunteers for a day focused on confidence, independence, and real-world travel skills.

• Students practiced tactile maps, cardinal directions, obstacle detection, stair travel, street crossings, and locating destinations using white cane techniques.

• Activities were designed for different ages, skill levels, and visual abilities, helping students grow through hands-on experiences and peer connections.

• Parents attended informational sessions with experts in orientation and mobility and assistive technology, learning how to better support independence at home and school.

• Volunteers and instructors emphasized allowing students to lead, encouraging confidence and problem-solving skills.

• Paralympian and keynote speaker Max Nelson inspired students with his story of perseverance, independence, and self-confidence.

Cane Quest celebrated more than competition—it highlighted mobility, teamwork, community support, and the belief that blind and visually impaired students can achieve extraordinary goals.

- The Minnesota Cane Quest Planning Team

Madi Ericksen, BrightWorks/SparkPath

Colleen Feller, BrightWorks/SparkPath

Jenny Pelletier, State Services for the Blind

Joya Musa, Minneapolis Public Schools

Allison Knigge, Minneapolis Public Schools

Links of interests:

The Spectacle Newsletter

Youth Services at SSB

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