Blog

March 7, 2025
We are thrilled to announce that Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches has been featured as the cover story in the March 14-20 edition of Palm Beach Society ! The article, titled "Empowering Vision, Inspiring Independence," highlights the transformative work we do to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired (B/VI) across Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. A Beacon of Hope for the B/VI Community Since 1946, Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches (LHPB) has been dedicated to providing vital services, education, and resources to individuals of all ages—babies, children, young adults, working professionals, and seniors. As the only private, nonprofit organization of its kind in West Palm Beach, LHPB stands out for its commitment to empowering the blind and visually impaired to live full, independent lives. Our mission goes beyond serving individuals; we provide training for families, caregivers, and even institutions to create inclusive environments for the B/VI community. Through services funded almost entirely by charitable donations, we are proud to be fully accredited by the National Accreditation Council. Spotlighting Our Life-Changing Programs The Palm Beach Society feature captures the heart of our work, including programs like: The Youth Program: Offering early intervention vision screenings for children and helping them develop essential life skills. Technology Training: Providing clients with tools to access education, employment, and daily life independently. Well-Being and Independence Living for Adults Program: Empowering adults to regain independence and confidence through mobility training, education, and hands-on activities.
March 5, 2025
We are proud to announce that Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches has been featured in the prestigious INNOVATE South Florida ebook! This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired across Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, and Indian River counties. A Spotlight on Innovation and Impact Our feature on page 148 of the ebook showcases the vital work we do to provide education, rehabilitation, and support services to individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. From early intervention programs for infants and children to life skills training for adults, our mission is to help individuals develop their capabilities to the fullest and lead independent, fulfilling lives. This recognition in INNOVATE South Florida is a testament to the dedication of our team, volunteers, and supporters who make our work possible. It also highlights the innovative approaches we take to ensure that every individual we serve has access to the tools and resources they need to thrive. Why This Matters Being featured in INNOVATE South Florida places us among some of the most forward-thinking organizations in the region. It’s an opportunity to shine a light on the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments and the solutions we provide to help them overcome these obstacles. Our work is about more than just services—it’s about creating a community where everyone, regardless of their vision, can achieve their dreams and live with dignity and independence. Explore the Ebook We invite you to explore the INNOVATE South Florida ebook and read more about our feature on page 148. The ebook celebrates organizations and individuals driving innovation and making a difference in South Florida. 📖 Read the ebook here: INNOVATE South Florida Thank You for Your Support This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community. Whether you’ve volunteered , donated , or simply shared our mission, you’ve played a part in helping us reach this milestone. Together, we’re making a difference in the lives of those who are blind or visually impaired. Let’s continue to innovate, inspire, and empower!
February 25, 2025
Lighthouse of the Blind for the Palm Beaches, proudly announces its pioneering step towards inclusivity with the installation of the RightHear Accessibility system at our West Palm Beach location. Lighthouse of the Blind for the Palm Beaches is now fully accessible to people who are blind and visually impaired. With the implementation of the RightHear system, the Lighthouse reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, always striving to ensure that all visitors can have the most independent and equitable experience possible. The RightHear system offers a user-friendly experience, empowering individuals with visual impairments to explore and engage with their surroundings seamlessly. Upon entering the premises, users can easily access audio instructions and directions through their smartphones, guiding them to key points of interest in our office. The information can be delivered in up to 26 languages, ensuring that the solution meets the needs of the diverse and cosmopolitan nature of the Lighthouse. Key features of the RightHear system at Lighthouse of the Blind for the Palm Beaches include: Real-Time Audio Assistance: The RightHear mobile app, available for both iOS and Android, provides users with real-time audio guidance and information about the location they are in in our office. Orientation Assistance: Users can effortlessly acquire better orientation, receive audio descriptions about their surroundings, and easily locate important areas, enhancing their overall experience and independence. Event and Service Information: The RightHear system is capable of delivering detailed information about upcoming events, and any relevant announcements, ensuring that everyone is well-informed when they arrive in our building. Idan Meir , Co-Founder and CEO of RightHear added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Lighthouse of the Blind for the Palm Beaches in their commitment to accessibility and inclusion. By embracing innovative solutions like RightHear, organizations and businesses can create welcoming environments that cater to diverse visitor needs and preferences. Our mission is to make the whole world more accessible, one building at a time, and thanks to partners like the Lighthouse, our mission continues to move forward”. See RightHear in action:
February 24, 2025
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 , as the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches proudly hosts its 4th Annual EnVision 20/20 Luncheon ! This highly anticipated event will take place at the elegant Sailfish Club in Palm Beach , starting at 11:00 am . It promises to be an afternoon filled with inspiration, entertainment, and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with visual impairments.
January 30, 2025
We are honored to announce that Boca Magazine has featured Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches in its February 2025 edition! In an insightful Q&A, our Executive Director, Lisa Stella, shared valuable insights into our mission, the impact of our services, and how the community can better support individuals with visual impairments. Why is Lighthouse for the Blind so Important? Since 1946, Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches has been a beacon of hope for individuals with visual impairments, providing essential services to help them lead independent, fulfilling lives. Lisa emphasized how our programs—from mobility training to employment readiness—equip people with the skills they need to thrive.
November 15, 2024
Congratulations to six Lighthouse clients who graduated last month from the Recipes for Success culinary certificate program! These talented individuals, who are visually impaired or blind, have gained the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful careers in the culinary industry.
October 30, 2024
Learn more about the Lighthouse's award nomination and attendance at the 8th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards
October 15, 2024
October 15th marks White Cane Awareness Day, a time dedicated to celebrating the independence and mobility of individuals with vision loss. This year, Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches had the honor of receiving an official proclamation from Mayor Keith James of the City of West Palm Beach in recognition of this important day. We are proud to have our work and community acknowledged through this meaningful gesture.
September 15, 2024
Our team was at it again when our Executive Director, Lisa Stella, MBA , and longtime partner and friend of the Lighthouse, Dr. Scott Gartner of Low Vision Services, spoke at the Palm Beach County Optometric Association's September meeting! A big thank you to Dr. Sara Rasekhi, Palm Beach County Optometric Association President, and Dr. Adam Ramsey from Socialite Vision for inviting Lisa to speak with 50 local Optometrists about the services the Lighthouse provides to visually impaired babies, children, teens, adults, and the older blind in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Dr. Scott Gartner highlighted the importance of Low Vision Services and encouraged Optometrists to refer patients to him so they can collaborate as a team to maximize the usability of each patient’s remaining vision for a happier, more fulfilling life. He emphasized that a strong diagnosis, paired with Lighthouse services, can be truly life-changing for individuals with vision loss. Additionally, Dr. Gartner demonstrated some of the latest assistive technology designed to enhance independence, mobility, and quality of life for those who are visually impaired. The special guest speaker of the evening was Dr. Peter A. Pham, an ophthalmologist from Tomball, Texas, with expertise in glaucoma surgery and the treatment of cataracts and other conditions. Dr. Pham, who is also a biochemist, shared his personal struggle with dry eye, which led him to discover the healing benefits of okra and develop the Zocular product line. Although Zocular was originally created for eye ailments, participants at the event were invited to try the sample gel on painful areas (many opted for their knees) and check back 20 minutes later. The response was overwhelmingly positive! This unique experience added an exciting touch to the evening. A special thank you to David Keith Ophthalmic for sponsoring this engaging and informative event! If you would like our team to join you at a community education event, please call our office at 561-586-5600 to schedule a tour or share an invite to an event where we can educate more people about the programs and services we provide to those in need!
August 16, 2024
Learn about the Lighthouse's recent reception of the Tech Doing Good Award from the South Florida Tech Hub
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