Dave Bertsch

In 2003 Dave Bertsch founded and led Grow Sales Marketing Group, until selling the company in 2018. Since then, he has served in various leadership roles in the blind and disability community, focused on advocacy and public policy.

Legally blind since his twenties, Dave has served as a City Councilman and is a current member of Ohio’s Statewide Independent Living Council and the State Library’s Consumer Advisory Committee. Other board positions have included his local Rotary and Library Foundation.

Dave has degrees from The University of Akron and Kent State University, where he met Stephanie, his wife of twenty-five years. They live near Akron, Ohio with their rescue dogs Sadie and Summer.

Photo of Dave, a light-skinned man, smiling
  • Two men stand inside a machine shop, with their hands touching as they communicate via protactile.

    How Costco is Supporting Valuable Training for People Who Are DeafBlind

    February 29th, 2024

    In a world that continually strives for inclusivity and equal opportunities, there are shining examples of organizations that go above and beyond to make a difference. One such example is the remarkable partnership between Costco [...]

  • Two portraits, side by side. On the left is a light-skinned man with light brown hair, wearing a suit and smiling. On the right is a medium dark-skinned woman with brown curly hair, wearing a colorful floral shirt beneath a magenta blazer, smiling.

    John Craddock and Lachelle Smith Join the Lighthouse Board of Trustees

    October 18th, 2023

    The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is excited to announce two new exceptional additions to our Board of Trustees, John Craddock and Lachelle Smith. Their impressive backgrounds, dedication to their communities, and passion for [...]

  • Portrait of Dave Bertsch, a light skinned man with grey hair.

    Welcome New Foundation Board Members

    April 20th, 2023

    Join us in welcoming our two newest Foundation Board members, Dave Bertsch and Yue Ou, at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. Dave and Yue both bring a wealth of experience and a unique [...]