The San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and Vision Impaired is a non-profit organization that has been providing services to individuals who are blind or visually impaired in San Antonio, Texas, for over 85 years. Founded in 1933, the Lighthouse has become an integral part of the community by offering job training, employment opportunities, and other supportive services for individuals with visual impairments.
History
The San Antonio Lighthouse was established in 1933 after a group of local businessmen recognized the need for a facility that could provide job training and employment opportunities for individuals who were blind or visually impaired. At that time, there were very few resources available for individuals with visual impairments, and many were struggling to find work or support themselves and their families.
The Lighthouse began as a small workshop where blind workers could produce brooms and other goods, but it quickly grew into a full-fledged manufacturing operation. Today, the organization employs over 450 people with visual impairments and operates several different business lines, including contract manufacturing, call center services, and military clothing production. Click for more info
Job Training and Employment Opportunities
The San Antonio Lighthouse is dedicated to providing job training and employment opportunities to individuals with visual impairments. The organization offers a variety of vocational programs that help participants develop skills in areas such as computer technology, office administration, and industrial production.
In addition to job training, the Lighthouse also operates several businesses that employ individuals with visual impairments. These include a call center that provides customer service and technical support to clients across the country, as well as a military clothing production line that produces items for the U.S. Armed Forces.
Accessible Technology Services
Another important area of focus for the San Antonio Lighthouse is accessible technology services. The organization operates a technology center that provides training and support to individuals with visual impairments who want to learn more about assistive technology devices and software.
The technology center also offers a wide range of services, including computer repair and maintenance, web design, and software development. Many of these services are provided by individuals with visual impairments, who receive on-the-job training and employment opportunities through the Lighthouse.
Community Outreach
The San Antonio Lighthouse is committed to reaching out to the community and raising awareness about the abilities and contributions of individuals with visual impairments. The organization hosts several events throughout the year, including a blind golf tournament, an art show featuring work by visually impaired artists, and an annual gala that honors local leaders and supporters. A Fantastic Read
In addition to these events, the Lighthouse also provides educational programs and resources for schools, businesses, and community organizations. These programs help to promote understanding and acceptance of individuals with visual impairments, and they provide valuable information on how to accommodate and support individuals with disabilities.
Conclusion
The San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and Vision Impaired has been providing vital services to individuals with visual impairments in San Antonio for over 85 years. Through its job training and employment programs, accessible technology services, and community outreach efforts, the Lighthouse has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for thousands of individuals who might otherwise struggle to find support and resources.
If you are interested in learning more about the San Antonio Lighthouse or supporting its mission, visit its website at www.salighthouse.org.
FAQs
What services does the San Antonio Lighthouse provide?
The organization provides job training, employment opportunities, accessible technology services, and community outreach programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Who is eligible to receive services from the San Antonio Lighthouse?
Individuals who are blind or visually impaired are eligible to participate in the organization’s programs and services.
How can I support the San Antonio Lighthouse?
You can support the organization by making a donation, volunteering your time, or attending one of its fundraising events. You can also purchase products made by the organization’s employees, such as military clothing, brooms, and call center services.
Is the San Antonio Lighthouse affiliated with any national organizations?
Yes, the organization is a member of the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and the AbilityOne program, which help to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the United States.
How long has the San Antonio Lighthouse been in operation?
The organization was founded in 1933, so it has been providing services to individuals with visual impairments for over 85 years.
Does the San Antonio Lighthouse only serve residents of San Antonio?
No, the organization serves individuals from across the state of Texas and beyond.
Are there any age restrictions for participating in the Lighthouse’s programs?
No, the organization serves individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired.
Are there any costs associated with participating in the San Antonio Lighthouse’s programs?
Some programs may have a fee associated with them, but many of the organization’s services are provided free of charge, thanks to the support of donors and volunteers.
Can sighted individuals volunteer at the San Antonio Lighthouse?
Yes, the organization welcomes volunteers of all abilities to help with a variety of tasks, from administrative work to production line support.
Important Information Need to Know
- Address: 2305 Roosevelt Ave, San Antonio, TX 78210, United States
- Website: http://www.salighthouse.org/
- Contact: +12105335195
- Open Hours: Monday-Friday (7:30 AM-4:30 PM), Saturday-Sunday (CLOSED)