The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is not just a non-profit organization, but a community of individuals committed to giving back to their local communities through volunteering. Lighthouse employees understand the value of volunteering, and their dedication to community service serves as a reminder of our responsibility to give back and make a positive impact in the world.
Through their volunteering efforts, Lighthouse employees make a difference in the lives of those around them, inspiring others to give back and make a positive impact in the world. Learn about some of the incredible employees who give back to their communities!
Deng Kong, Receptionist/Office Assistant
When not at work, Deng volunteers at Ski for Light Puget Sound, a non-profit organization that provides skiing opportunities for people who are visually impaired. Deng has been volunteering with Ski for Light for the past eleven years and is actively involved in organizing outings and events both during and off the ski season.
“Getting to hear people say what a wonderful day and time they have at the end of the day makes me feel good about myself, a sense of accomplishment, and great pleasure to give back to the community,” shares Deng.
During ski season, Deng is responsible for processing ski applications, scheduling ski dates, and keeping track of who attends each outing. Deng also ensures that there are enough sighted guides/volunteers for each outing and sends out reminder email messages. In addition, Deng assists with fundraising efforts and matches sighted guide and visually impaired skier pairings when needed. Deng also prepares board meeting agendas and directs board meetings.
During the off season, Deng organizes outings such as hikes/walks, tandem bike rides, kayak outings, and group camping trips. Deng’s dedication and leadership skills have helped Ski for Light Puget Sound to grow and flourish over the years.
Deng volunteers because it provides an opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and practice leadership skills. Deng finds pleasure in giving back to the community and feels a sense of accomplishment when hearing about the positive impact Ski for Light Puget Sound has on its participants.
David Miller, Senior Orientation & Mobility Specialist
David has been volunteering since 1990 with various non-profit organizations in the Seattle area. David’s interests lie in supporting the DeafBlind community through recreational activities and outdoor volunteering.
As a volunteer, David attends local DeafBlind community social events, including the annual DeafBlind community picnic, where he interprets during the meeting to support the community. David also enjoys running, walking, and hiking with people from the DeafBlind community outside of work. In addition, David is passionate about forest management and restoration projects and has volunteered with organizations such as the Washington Trails Association and on an Elhwa River restoration and reseeding project. David is currently looking to volunteer with organizations that plant trees in local parks and city property.
David has been volunteering to challenge himself, expand his network, and meet new people. Volunteering in Protactile ASL interpreting allows him to keep up his skills and engage with members of the DeafBlind community he may not encounter at work. Meanwhile, outdoor volunteering allows David to exercise, learn more about forest management, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Kate Weigel, Senior Director of Philanthropy
Kate Weigel is a parent who is passionate about teaching her young son, Jase, the value of volunteering. Recently, Kate and Jase spent time volunteering at Wellspring, where they sorted clothing donations following the holiday season.
Kate recognizes the importance of instilling the value of giving back to the community in her son from a young age. Kate’s commitment to volunteering with her son sets a great example for other parents who want to teach their children about the importance of community service. Kate and Jase’s volunteer work at Wellspring is an excellent reminder that small acts of kindness can make a significant impact in the lives of those in need.
James Jeyaraj, Production Scheduler
“I enjoy every bit of volunteering, as it gives my life purpose by making a difference in my community. I feel like I am building a legacy that I can be proud of,” shares James.
James Jeyaraj is a Production Scheduler in the Aerospace industry who also spends a significant amount of his free time volunteering with non-profits and local agencies. He is a Board Member for both the St. Stephens Housing Authority, which provides housing for families facing homelessness, and the Auburn Children Dance Theater, which gives low-income families the opportunity to send their children to ballet classes at low cost.
James has been volunteering for both organizations since 2022 and is committed to making a positive impact in his community. He is also a Deputy Mayor for the City of Auburn and serves on multiple local government boards. James finds purpose in his volunteer work and feels that he is building a legacy that he can be proud of.
Gaylen Floy, Computer and Assistive Technology Instructor
Gaylen Floy is a Computer and Assistive Technology Instructor and Communications Chair at the Washington Council of the Blind. She serves on the Communications Committee, which covers the phone system, email lists, and website. In her role, she acts as a project manager, ensuring that the tech people stay on track. Gaylen has been volunteering with the organization since 2005.
She is passionate about spreading the word about the Council’s work, which includes providing college scholarships, no-interest loans for technology and training, crisis help, and support for families of kids dealing with vision loss. The organization also hosts a yearly convention with workshops, on-site training, and a vendor fair. Additionally, members are trained on how to advocate for reasonable and positive change, and local chapters offer peer-to-peer support and activities.
“I volunteer because people who are blind can be pretty awesome,” Gaylen shares.
Mandie Hughes, Store Manager, Fallon AbilityOne Base Supply Center
For Mandie Hughes, volunteering with Fallon Pop Warner Football not only allows her to give back to her local community, but it also doubles as a way to spend quality time with her child. As a team mom/manager, she can actively participate in her child’s extracurricular activities, which is important for both parent-child bonding and creating a strong support system for her child.
Furthermore, by volunteering with a local organization like Fallon Pop Warner Football, Mandie is demonstrating to her child the importance of participating in community organizations and giving back to those in need. This sets a positive example for her child and may inspire them to volunteer in the future as well.
“I wanted to be more involved with the youth that needed guidance, an ear to listen, and structure,” Mandie shares.
Overall, Mandie’s volunteer work not only benefits the community and the organization she is working with, but it also strengthens her relationship with her child and instills important values and lessons.
Julia Anderson, Accommodations Manager
Julia is dedicated to giving back to her community through volunteering. Julia is a committed volunteer with two organizations. First, she is a Big Sister/Mentor with Big Brother Big Sister Puget Sound, having served for one year so far. Second, she is a Board member with Techies Without Borders, where she has volunteered for 3.5 years. Julia believes in the missions of both organizations and is passionate about giving back to her community.
Julia shares, “I volunteer because I believe it’s a good way to give back to the community and I believe in the missions of the groups I support.”
Everett Elam, Computer and Assistive Technology Instructor
Everett has a deep passion for video gaming. His love for gaming has helped him develop a range of skills including problem-solving, critical thinking, and strategic planning. His interest in assistive technology also stems from his initial immersion in the world of video games. Recently, Everett has been working with Themis Games, a game development team based in Spokane, that focuses on creating accessible games for all. As an advocate for accessibility in gaming, he has been raising awareness about Themis Games and their mission to create games that are inclusive and accessible to everyone.
“Through my advocacy work, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive gaming industry and promote equal access to entertainment for all,” Everett shares.
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The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. transforms the lives of people who are blind, Deafblind, and blind with other disabilities. We are leaders in blind employment. Through employment opportunities, we are a catalyst for empowerment. We foster self-confidence and instill a life changing affirmation that independence is possible. From our expertise in cutting-edge technology to our understanding of mobility, we help people who are blind, Deafblind, and blind with other disabilities live fulfilling lives.
