Winter 2008

George Jacobson, President

It has been my privilege to be a part of the Lighthouse for the Blind for almost forty years, and to serve as its CEO for twenty-eight of those years. In my time here, I have had the opportunity to get to know hundreds of extraordinary people who have made The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. what it is today. Our success rests with the great people here. I am grateful to have worked beside them.

In 1968, I joined this organization devoted to a singular mission: to create and enhance opportunities for independence and self-sufficiency of people who are blind, Deaf-Blind, and blind with other disabilities. Seeing that mission fulfilled has been the driving force for me through the years. That same mission focus drives our board of directors and staff today.

As I prepare to step down, I am happy to know that I leave a team of talented people in charge, completely dedicated to the Lighthouse mission. As I look to the future, I know that employment opportunities and upward mobility for people with visual disabilities will continue to expand.

Our team will continue to cultivate our long-standing relationships with National Industries for the Blind and The Boeing Company. Through the years we have never hesitated to take on new challenges in the service of our mission, and the Lighthouse board and staff will continue to seek out opportunities for the advancement of blind people in our community.

One of the greatest pleasures during my tenure here has been seeing how technology has opened up greater information access to blind and Deaf-Blind individuals. Just a little over a decade ago, computers were still a rare feature in our offices. Today, we have over one hundred adapted workstations with electronic screen-readers and braille displays. As assistive technology and computer training advances, so will high-skilled, competitive employment for people who are blind, Deaf-Blind, and blind with other disabilities.

In my last year here, we have begun steps towards our next phase. In 2008, we will open up our first satellite shop in Spokane. As I look to the future, I anticipate a greater focus on bringing employment opportunities to blind people throughout our region. At the same time, the Lighthouse team will continue to sustain and expand the opportunities and services that are the cornerstones of our organization: meaningful, fulfilling work and innovative, quality programs.

To me the Lighthouse is a special place, a place where people have overcome great barriers to build a vibrant community. It has been an honor to be part of it, and I thank all of the many, many people here who have made it a genuine joy to work here.

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