Lighthouse Employee Mae Mullen standing and smiling in the Ethel L. Dupar Fragrant Garden

Lighthouse Machinist Mae Mullen

Mae Mullen, one of just a few DeafBlind machinists working at our Seattle facility, is reaching new heights at the Lighthouse and is the first DeafBlind employee to take part in a 4-year AJAC Apprenticeship program.

No stranger to a challenge, Mae jumped headlong into the training last fall and has found tremendous success through specialized, 1-on-1 training and tutoring. Being DeafBlind requires individualized sessions from an instructor trained in tactile sign language and communication, which comes with an increased price tag.
The Lighthouse, and Mae, are committed to continuing the apprenticeship – but we need your support to help fund the training and accommodations so that Mae can become the first DeafBlind individual to complete the program!

With specialized and accessible instruction, the price rises to $1,500 per class. With 9 classes left in the apprenticeship, Mae and the Lighthouse are facing an uphill battle to raise the $13,500 total cost.

Thank you for considering making a gift in support of Mae’s educational endeavors, allowing her to not only break new ground as the first DeafBlind individual to ever complete the program, but also to gain critical skills that would allow her to grow in her position at the Lighthouse and foster her empowerment as an independent person. Be sure to write in “Mae Mullen” when making your gift so it goes to the right fund!