One Touch Self-Defense: Accessible Safety Skills in Our Community

Feeling safe in the world shouldn’t depend on sight.

CPWD was proud to partner with Thornton Parks and Recreation and the DeafBlind Action Team to offer One Touch Self-Defense classes designed specifically for blind, low vision, and DeafBlind community members.

Led by instructor Jim Pilkington, the One Touch program uses a tactile-based approach that focuses on body awareness, personal boundaries, verbal assertiveness, and simple, effective techniques for responding to unwanted contact. The training does not rely on sight and is adaptable to real-life situations participants may encounter in their daily lives.

More than just physical techniques, these classes emphasize confidence, autonomy, and choice — core elements of independent living. When safety education is intentionally designed with accessibility at the center, it creates stronger individuals and more connected communities.

We’re grateful to our partners and to everyone who participated in making this program possible.

🎥 Watch the video below to learn more about One Touch Self-Defense and see the class in action.