Finding Strength and a New Path: Melinda Slovernick’s Journey at the Lighthouse

Opening

I can say after working for The Lighthouse for the Blind, Incorporated, that this is the best job that I’ve ever had, sighted or not.

And I just love being an integral part of our team.

And wherever I can help out is fabulous.

Melinda’s Role

My name is Melinda.

And I am the Administrative Assistant for the AbilityOne Base Supply Centers on the West Coast.

I have worked for The Lighthouse for the Blind for 7 years.

Losing Her Vision

So in 2002, I was in a horrific car accident that took my eyesight.

And it took me a long time to adjust to it. At that time, I was a single mom.

And so I really just used all the resources that were available to get the places that my daughter and I needed to go.

Finding The Lighthouse

After my blindness, I could not find anybody to employ me.

And nobody was willing to train me to see if I could even do the job.

I found the Lighthouse because I was looking for mobility training. So I called the Lighthouse.

And they’re like, oh, yeah, sure, come on down. We’ll pick somebody to give you mobility training.

And then we were in the mobility instructor’s office.

And she’s like, “You know, we’re hiring.”

And I’m like, “What? Really? I can work?!”

Oh my gosh, I — it was the best experience that I could have ever asked for.

Mobility Training

The mobility training that I received at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Incorporated, makes me feel like I can travel anywhere with the use of my white cane.

Career Growth at The Lighthouse

I have worked several jobs at the Lighthouse. I started in packing.

And then I did an internship in the contact center. From that job, I started being the administrative assistant.

And that job started in 2018.

And I’ve been the Administrative Assistant for the AbilityOne Base Supply Center ever since.

Gratitude

So I owe me being able to help my family because of The Lighthouse for the Blind.

I’m eternally grateful for giving me the ability to work.

Closing

The Lighthouse for the Blind, Incorporated learn more at LHBlind.org.

Melinda Slovernick Employee of the Year: Leadership Through Resilience

When Melinda Slovernick walks into work each day as an Administrative Assistant for the AbilityOne Base Supply Centers at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., she brings not only strong organizational skills and a dedicated work ethic, but also a remarkable story of resilience, growth, and leadership. That impact was formally recognized this year when Melinda was named Employee of the Year, an honor that reflects both her professional excellence and personal journey.

Melinda Slovernick, Employee of the Year, is a recognition earned through resilience, dedication, and growth. Her journey at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. reflects how meaningful employment can transform lives and build confidence after life-changing events.

A Life Changed in an Instant

Years ago, Melinda was involved in a severe car accident that left her blind. In the aftermath, everyday tasks became challenges and the future felt uncertain. Determined to rebuild her life, Melinda searched for meaningful work and a place where she could regain independence and purpose.

That path led her to The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.—an organization committed to empowering people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities through employment and opportunity.

Starting in Manufacturing

In 2015, Melinda began her Lighthouse career in manufacturing. It was her first full-time job since losing her vision, and she admits she was nervous. With the support of accessible technology and encouraging coworkers, she quickly found her footing. Her reliability, adaptability, and strong work ethic stood out.

Growing Into a New Role

Recognizing her strengths, leadership encouraged Melinda to apply for an Administrative Assistant role within the AbilityOne Base Supply Centers. Today, she supports multiple BSC locations through document preparation, records management, and coordination—keeping critical operations running smoothly.

“I’m proud of what I do,” Melinda shared. “It feels good to be trusted with important work.”

Employee of the Year

Winning Employee of the Year was both surprising and deeply meaningful for Melinda. “I didn’t always think people noticed my work,” she said. “Knowing they do—and that it matters—means everything.”

Her journey reflects perseverance, confidence, and the power of opportunity. Melinda’s story reminds us that with the right support, growth is possible—and excellence shines.

January 26th, 2026|AbilityOne Base Supply Centers, Employee of the Year, Employees, Seattle|

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