Annual Report
2007 Report to the Community

Employee & Community Services

As part of our planning process, the Employee and Community Services (ECS) department conducted stakeholder meetings with internal and external stakeholders in 2007. Taking the results of the stakeholder input, and aligning it with Lighthouse strategic objectives, resulted in the following new or strengthened program services:

Braille Literacy

In 2007, we began program design and secured funding for our Braille Literacy Program. The Braille Literacy Program offers intensive, multi-year training designed especially for blind individuals learning braille as adults. For a person who is completely blind, opportunities for upward mobility, technology training and staying informed are often contingent on being a competent braille reader.

Expansion of our Computer Training Program (CTP)

Our CTP was launched in 2007 to provide intermediate vocational computer training for blind and low vision employees who had basic computer skills. In evaluating potential students, CTP staff identified a need for basic computer skills training including keyboarding training. In mid-2007, we began to expand our program design to include computer basics starting spring 2008.

Enhancement of Community Resource Information

We have developed a community resource speakers forum of representatives from various local organizations who come in on a regular basis to share resource information with employees.

Housing

With the high cost of living in Seattle, our priority is to support blind and Deaf-Blind individuals in obtaining suitable housing that matches their needs.

• Our housing support services include:
• Support with application to local subsidy programs that reduce the cost of living
• Assistance applying for suitable housing
• Identifying apartments matching blind and Deaf-Blind consumer performances and budget

Sign Language and Deaf-Blind Culture Training

Seattle Lighthouse employees are incredibly diverse when it comes to communication, with blind, Deaf-Blind, Deaf, hearing, and sighted employees all working together. To facilitate better communication for all our employees, we offer sign language training, including numerous 1:1 tactile sign language classes with blind employees. The Seattle Lighthouse is one of the few places in the nation where blind hearing individuals are learning sign language.

Orientation & Mobility (O&M)

O&M program development continued in 2007 with the addition of another full-time O&M instructor. Our O&M instructors met the needs of numerous new employees, new funded contracts for O&M services, and the ongoing needs of employees as they navigate through the demolition/construction and ever changing transit landscape in the Seattle area.

CARF Accreditation

ECS is coordinating an organizational accreditation by Commission of Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities. This accreditation is necessary for us to do business, receive donations and grants, and to provide funded services. The site visit for the CARF accreditation will take place in May/June of 2008.

Your donations support Employee and Community Services, giving blind and Deaf-Blind people the tools for independence and success. Thank you for your support.

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