2006 Report to the Community Annual Report

Message from the Board Chair

As one of the largest employers of blind and Deaf-Blind people in the country, The Lighthouse for the Blind must meet an exceptional challenge each year ─ to further its mission of creating opportunities for people with visual disabilities while meeting its financial bottom line. This past year, Lighthouse employees, board members, volunteers, and community donors worked together to successfully increase opportunities here at the Lighthouse while strengthening our long-term financial success. 

Our employment opportunities for people with visual disabilities jumped from 154 to 169 in 2006. We added 15 new blind and Deaf-Blind employees to our roster while strengthening our financial position by ramping up Lighthouse manufacturing lines. In spring 2006 we began production on a major new line: the canteen cup. With the addition of the cup, The Lighthouse has become sole supplier of the three-part canteen line to the federal government.

Our contract with The Boeing Company yielded greater work opportunities as well. Our Boeing contract work increased by 25%, thereby creating new, high-skilled jobs for the blind and Deaf-Blind workforce. Many dedicated Lighthouse employees worked overtime to meet the demands of our increased workload. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the production and machining teams for commitment to their work.

The Lighthouse team also dedicated themselves to creating opportunities for upward mobility and career development for adults with visual disabilities. One of the key factors in career advancement is on-going training. In this digital age, computer training is particularly important. I am pleased to announce that the Lighthouse opened a new Computer Training Program for blind adults offering vocational courses on assistive technology, Office applications, and the Internet.

In 2006, we rolled out the Leaders at All Levels business training program. This training offered an organization-wide opportunity for employees to strengthen their business skills. For blind employees interested in attaining a deeper level of business management competency, we sponsor training through National Industries for the Blind’s Business Management Training program. This is the second year that Lighthouse staff members have participated in this intensive, 14-month program.

This past year was also a time of preparation and new opportunities. President George Jacobson announced his retirement date of January 2008, and the board immediately began a search for the new Lighthouse President. In September, we announced that General Manager of Administration Kirk Adams accepted the position of president-elect.

As head of the search committee, I was privileged to offer this job to someone with not only exceptional leadership skills, but also an outstanding dedication to our mission. Under Kirk’s leadership, I have every confidence that The Lighthouse for the Blind will continue to thrive and to be a touchstone for the blind and Deaf-Blind communities.

In the year ahead, The Lighthouse team will work together to ensure a successful transition while continuing to fulfill our mission. George Jacobson, Kirk Adams, and the Lighthouse board will work closely together to implement a comprehensive succession plan that ensures the health of our organization and maintains a commitment to the people we serve. I am proud to work with an organization that demonstrates such a firm investment in its future and its mission.

Thanks to all of you who have dedicated yourself to providing opportunities for people who are blind, Deaf-Blind, and blind with other disabilities to live independently and succeed. I look forward to working with you in the year ahead.

Douglas M. Klan, Board Chairman

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