2006 Report to the Community Annual Report

President’s Award Winner: Ophelia Arellano

Born in the Philippines, Ophelia Arellano followed her brother to the United States and to The Lighthouse for the Blind. She started working at the Lighthouse in July of 1985 in the sewing department, making such items as sleeping bags for fire fighters.

When she heard about a job opening up in the canteen area, her colleagues encouraged her to apply. Though she was nervous about her English skills, she overcame her fear and attained the job. She has now worked in the canteen area for 16 years, eventually becoming a lead.

“The first time I won the President’s Award was in 1996 and I was really surprised then. To win the award a second time really makes me happy and even more surprised,” she says. “The Lighthouse has given me so many opportunities. I love working here because where I came from -- in the Philippines -- the work opportunities were not there especially without a college degree.

She concludes, “I now know that, if you have patience, all things come to you in due time. If you want to work, the work is there.”

President’s Award candidates are nominated by co-workers, then selected by the Lighthouse President prior to the employee awards ceremony. President George Jacobson chose Ophelia because of her outstanding commitment and kindness. “Ophelia is hard working and committed to the Lighthouse mission. She’s very popular with everyone who works in production,” George says. “She’s helpful, understands the needs of the people she works with, and she’s empathetic as heck!”

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