Two people with dog guides and one with a white cane stand outside the Lighthouse.

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. transforms the lives of people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. 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 and DeafBlind live fulfilling lives. We believe everyone, no matter their vision abilities, deserves to experience the power of employment. Our goal for each person we reach is to ignite a fire of determination that is centered on the reality that blindness doesn’t define who you are or how you choose to live.

A dark skinned man standing proudly in front a machining workstation in Seattle

Employment for Empowerment

Employment is a pillar of our American dream. Through our jobs, we better ourselves, sharpen our skills, and provide for our families. A person who is blind deserves to find fulfilling and meaningful work but employment statistics for people who are blind or DeafBlind are astoundingly bleak. In the United States, 70% of people who are blind and 80% of people who are DeafBlind are unemployed. And 1/3 of adults who are blind live in poverty. When people lose their sight, the loss of independence frequently leads to feelings of isolation and depression.

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. provides opportunities for people to not only work, but also discover themselves and thrive. Our objective is employment but our mission is empowerment. We demonstrate that life after blindness is possible. We envision a future where the recognition of the capabilities of people who are blind or DeafBlind is a cultural norm.

A light-skinned woman sits and types at a computer workstation outfitted with a CCTV and a large print yellow keyboard

Employing Brighter Futures

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. employs over 260 people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities. We help individuals accommodate their vision needs and pursue their career ambitions. Our goal is to create pathways for personal and professional growth within our organization and beyond.

From making aerospace parts in our manufacturing facility for aerospace customers to providing quality assurance on contracts for the U.S. Navy, our jobs are diverse, challenging, and significant. To support our blind and DeafBlind colleagues, we provide a wide-range of programs and services. From braille courses to computer training to navigating a commute to work, we ensure all are poised for success. Our employees are immersed in a holistic supportive environment where they are free to not only dream big but also reach their professional goals.

At the Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. skills are gained. Confidence is instilled. Lives are transformed.

We are more than a rewarding place of employment. We are a community of people who inspire each other to discover their passions and grow as individuals. We are a place where experiences are shared, dreams are realized, and futures are brightened.

A photo of an early Lighthouse worker making brooms speaking to a young girl visiting the factory

Successful Since 1918

Since 1918, The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. has successfully employed people who are blind, DeafBlind and blind with other disabilities. Our longevity and stability stems from our commitment to understanding our community’s diverse needs. Our President and CEO is blind and we prioritize filling any position with people who are blind or DeafBlind. Many of our employees hold tenures longer than 10 years. Our orientation and mobility instructors are continually sought after from architects and government agencies for our expertise. As the largest employer of people who are blind on the west coast and the largest employer of people who are DeafBlind in the nation, we are committed to growing and evolving to meet the needs of our community.

Two people sit at a table, touching the screen of a CCTV, video magnifier.

Window into Possibilities

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. is a window into a world where equality is realized. We exemplify how the power of ingenuity and determination can transform lives and shape a more inclusive community. Through training and technology, we offer a new trajectory for how people live their lives. Our employees inspire others by demonstrating that working after vision loss is possible. As we take on more low vision services, we can create this window into possibility for many, many more people.