The purpose of the Supported Employment Program (SEP) is to empower adults who are blind or DeafBlind who experience a developmental disability become more independent in their work environment by providing appropriate training and services.

SEP participants are usually referred by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), or the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB). Participants perform a wide variety of jobs throughout the Lighthouse’s Seattle location, including timekeeping, assembling, sorting, labeling, packing, data entry, and manufacturing items for federal customers. All participants are assigned an Employment Advocate and receive job coaching that provides instruction, guidance, and support to help facilitate individual success in their careers.

All Supported Employment Program participants are offered on site classes, which may include braille literacy, ASL, computer training and keyboarding, orientation and mobility training, and awareness trainings. We strive for full inclusion and diversity throughout the Lighthouse, providing respect, community, accessibility, and safety.

Amy Koehl
Vice President of Employee and Community Services
Voice: (206) 436-2106
TTY: (206) 436-2213
akoehl@LHBlind.org

Alyssa Frohlich (right) working next to a Job Coach in Production

Related Supported Employment Articles

  • Tom Miller working in production

    Tom, a Gentle Spirit

    Tom was born and raised in Washington and has been blind since birth. He began his career at the Lighthouse on March 17th, 1980, just nine months after graduating from the Washington State School for the Blind.

  • Richelle Ross (right) communicates with a Job Coach (left)

    Because of You

    Richelle Ross (right) communicates with a Job Coach (left) For the past 30 years our daughter, Richelle, would say that her BEST days are the ones spent working at the Lighthouse. [...]

  • Linda and Ed Elliott: A Legacy of Service to the Lighthouse

    On Friday, November 7th, 2014 The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. said farewell to a couple of our beloved family members: Linda and Ed Elliott. Linda was one of the 2011 Employees of the Year [...]