Letter from President and CEO George Abbott

Dear Dedicated Donors, Partners, and Friends,

Thank you for supporting us this year! We have much to be thankful for and proud of. Despite taking longer than expected to break out of the grip of the pandemic, we accomplished a great deal and achieved many of our goals – allowing us to serve more employees and members in the community than ever before.

As we moved from summer into fall, our business operations, supply chain challenges, and our financial situation improved significantly, and we are now on strong footing going into our next fiscal year.

We implemented two new programs in 2023. First, we hired a specialist to provide career guidance to employees who are blind and DeafBlind. Through a variety of workshops and skill building exercises, employees will be better prepared to seek other positions within the Lighthouse or with other employers. A cohort was established to pilot this program and will inform its future direction.

The other program that grew considerably is our new webinar series offered on a variety of topics related to using technology for employment and independence. Attendance for these monthly webinars has grown steadily and attracted attendees from across the globe.

I am thrilled to report that we were able to resume the DeafBlind Retreat in August. For the first time, it was planned and executed by DeafBlind staff. Emphasis was on networking, recreational activities, and leadership development. It was a smashing success! We look forward to next year.

Much attention was devoted this year to implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning system that will not only help the Lighthouse operate more efficiently, but it will allow for blind and DeafBlind employees to have new job opportunities, previously not accessible to them.

Our new robust computer system will significantly increase our planning, tracking, and reporting capabilities, helping to ensure our continued success with customers and partners. This important work will be completed in 2024.

As you review this report, I invite you to take note of how skills are gained, confidence is instilled, and lives are transformed at the Lighthouse.

Thank you for your support. The future is bright at the Lighthouse!

Sincerely,