Lighthouse staff and guests at the Summer Garden PartyOn Thursday, July 19th, Ethel L. Dupar’s Fragrant Garden was in full bloom and the perfect backdrop for our annual Summer Garden Party at the Lighthouse. The weather was filled with sunshine, a light breeze, and temps in the mid 70s. Over 130 guests shared in the festivities, enjoying beer and wine, delicious eats, and a great mix of music, raising over $6,000 for our employee programs and services!

Nine raffle packages were on display throughout the evening and the raffle tent was certainly a busy gathering place while guests purchased their tickets and slipped their chances into the box associated with the packages they hoped to win. From local offerings in Seattle to a trip to the Caribbean, and from sports to gardening, there was something for everyone and some great cheers rang out as winners were announced.

Many guests signed up to go on one of four scheduled tours and see the inside of the manufacturing facility. The demonstration table was busy with folks checking out the accessible technology used at the Lighthouse. Some folks even had their names written in braille to take home with them.

For the first time, we offered a guide dog petting station so guests could stop by and ask questions of guide dog handlers about working a guide dog, and they were even allowed to do the “forbidden” petting of a working guide.

We loved sharing this special time with our community in the garden. This event is always a highlight of the summer. Thank you to each who joined us, the many volunteers who helped during the event, and to all who made a donation to ensure Lighthouse employees continue receiving needed training and support.

We hope we’ll see many of you at our Centennial Celebration on September 15that The Museum of Flight. RSVP for this event today!