Recognizing the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe: A Transformative Partner in Empowering People Who Are Blind & DeafBlind

At The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., our mission is simple but powerful: to empower people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities through sustainable employment, training programs, and transformative services that foster independence and career growth. Every day, we work toward creating a more inclusive community—one where every person, regardless of vision loss or ability, can thrive.

But we don’t do this work alone. Our success depends on the support of generous community partners who share our commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment. For nearly two decades, one partner has stood out as a remarkable ally in this mission: The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe.

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe: Leaders and Stewards of the Puget Sound

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s history is deeply rooted in the Puget Sound region. Descendants of the Duwamish and Upper Puyallup peoples, the Tribe’s ancestors were the first caretakers of the land and waters in what is now Seattle and the Duwamish River drainage. Today, the Tribe continues this leadership and stewardship as a sovereign Tribal nation governed by an elected council.

Beyond philanthropy, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe plays a vital role in the regional economy. They are one of South King County’s largest employers, supporting more than 3,300 direct jobs and contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy each year.

A Partnership Rooted in Community Impact

For the past 18 years, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe has been an outstanding partner to the Lighthouse, helping us expand opportunities for people who are blind and DeafBlind. Through funding and collaboration, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe supports meaningful employment opportunities, training programs, and independence services that empower individuals to overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency.

The Muckleshoot Charity Fund awards grants to organizations throughout the state that address the unique local and regional issues facing the population, including the Lighthouse. These funds ensure that essential programs are not only sustained but continue to grow for the hundreds of individuals who depend on them.

A Lasting Catalyst for Change

The Lighthouse is proud to stand alongside the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe in our shared mission of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people who are blind and DeafBlind. Their continued partnership has been a true catalyst for change—not only for individuals served by the Lighthouse but also for the broader Puget Sound community.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe for their 18 years of steadfast support. Your investment in accessibility, empowerment, and community well-being has transformed lives, strengthened our region, and set an example of what true partnership looks like.

To learn more about the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s history, leadership, and impact, please visit the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s official website.