The Chicago Lighthouse

Today we are sharing our last #WorldOptometryDay story. Meet Yvonne. Yvonne is a senior who lost her sight, but thanks to The Lighthouse, she never lost her independence. After complications from glaucoma left her completely blind, Yvonne turned to The Lighthouse for support. With the help of assistive technology training, support groups, and meditation classes, she not only adapted but thrived. Now, she swims, sews, and teaches others to "pivot toward positivity" in their own vision loss journeys. You can help more people like Yvonne access the services they need. It’s your last chance to have your donation matched dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000! Make a gift today and double your impact: https://bit.ly/4iL5gmW

As we continue our #WorldOptometryDay celebration, we’d like to share how Andres thought life as he knew it was over when he lost his vision. Until he came to The Lighthouse. An assault left Andres blind, unemployed, and isolated. But after being referred to The Lighthouse, he learned to maximize his remaining vision with magnifiers, lamps, and wearable devices, helping him regain confidence and independence. Today, he enjoys yardwork, family time, and life with his children and granddaughter. This #WorldOptometryDay, help more people like Andres rediscover what they love. Make a gift today and support life-changing low-vision services, and have your gift matched dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000! Make a gift today and double your impact: https://bit.ly/4iEpcIa

You may have heard that several states are challenging Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act, which protects against disability discrimination, but what exactly does that mean? Sandy Murillo spoke with Allison Barkoff, professor of Health Law and Policy at Milken Institute School of Public Health, to get the details for this week’s Disability Minute.

It’s day two of our #WorldOpomteryDay celebration, and today we’d like you to meet Cameron. Cameron is a young adult who was told he’d never drive, but The Lighthouse changed that. Diagnosed with Stargardt Disease at 15, Cameron relied on others for transportation. However, during a low vision exam at our clinic, we discovered that with a bioptic lens, he could qualify for a restricted driver’s license. Now, he has newfound independence, confidence, and freedom. You can help more people like Cameron see the possibilities for independence when you make a gift today. And this week, your gift will be matched dollar for dollar up to $10,000! Make a gift today and double your impact: https://bit.ly/4kKycNN

Happy #WorldOptometryDay! Today, we’re kicking off a week-long celebration where we’ll take you on a journey to share the amazing impact comprehensive low-vision care can have on people of all ages. Today, we want you to meet Brandon, a toddler who saw his family clearly for the first time in our low-vision clinic. Brandon is almost two years old, but he has struggled to see clearly since birth due to a rare genetic disorder. After being disappointed by clinic after clinic, Brandon’s parents finally found The Lighthouse. Brandon was recently fitted with his first pair of high-prescription glasses in our low-vision clinic. The moment they slid onto his tiny face, his mouth popped open in astonishment. He could truly see his family for the first time. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room. These magical moments are possible thanks to supporters like you. And this week, your gift will be matched up to $10,000 thanks to a generous donation match! Make a gift today and double your impact: https://bit.ly/4kPEP1q

Experience an unforgettable night of music and impact at our first-ever Seeing What’s Possible Gala Benefit CONCERT! Join us on Friday, June 13 at DePaul University’s stunning Gannon Concert Hall. Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring acclaimed vocalist Shelley MacArthur and renowned tenor Rodrick Dixon, performing alongside The City Lights Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Rich Daniels. Tickets are available now at https://bit.ly/4i0mzAf

Applications for our Youth Transition Program summer sessions are open! Youth with vision impairments are invited to explore their creative passions in our Photography for All Program or build independence and life-long friendships in our overnight Summer in the City program. Apply by April 1 at https://lnkd.in/dmfkjGS

We're #hiring a new Director of Business Development in Chicago, Illinois. Apply today or share this post with your network.

Applications for The Chicago Lighthouse’s Lader Family Scholarship Program are now being accepted! This scholarship is available to students in Illinois who are blind or have low vision to further their education by providing funds that can be used to cover the cost of tuition, textbooks, assistive technology or other school-related expenses. Apply by April 30, 2025 by 9:00 a.m. at: https://lnkd.in/g3zasDM7

We’re feeling extra lucky today for our amazing employees! Our team celebrated St. Patrick’s Day today with festive outfits, fun games, and some sweet treats. Thanks to everyone who joined in on the fun, both in person and from home. #StPatricksDay