I’m delighted to introduce our fall 2010 issue of Shared Vision, which is designed to provide you, our friends and donors, with the latest updates on our work, demonstrating how your invaluable support makes a tangible difference in the lives of people with vision loss.
Lighthouse International has always been a forward-thinking organization. On the occasion of our 105th anniversary, we’re taking a moment to look back at the pioneering Holt sisters who envisioned a better world for people without sight at the dawn of a new century. We’re sharing with you some of their ground-breaking milestones, as well as the story — documented by Winifred Holt in her writings — that inspired the birth of the Lighthouse.
Today, we continue to build on the foundation of the Holt sisters — true visionaries in every sense of the word — and of all those who carried their torch forward into our second century. We’re proud to be recognized as a worldwide leader in helping people facing low vision and blindness enjoy productive and independent lives through services, research, education and advocacy.
In this issue of Shared Vision, you’ll read about another Lighthouse first called Double Up 4 Vision, our newly launched annual fundraiser to fight vision loss. A tandem bike ride/walk, which pairs people with and without sight to share the experience, Double Up 4 Vision, in only its first year, already drew great participation. We expect it to become another signature Lighthouse event like our POSH® Sale, which we could not plan without our dedicated corps of volunteers. They, too, follow in the footsteps of the Holts, who were our first volunteers and philanthropists.
We’re also excited to report that The Lighthouse Store, which offers a wide range of products that make life easier for people with vision loss as well as for everyone, is now online. Visit shop.lighthouse.org and browse the site, where all proceeds support our non-profit mission. Inside, you’ll find a complimentary discount coupon, which you can use for your holiday shopping. As the holidays draw near, the theme of giving thanks resonates more deeply than it does during the rest of the year. On behalf of everyone who relies on us for clinical and rehabilitation services that enhance their quality of life, please accept our deepest thanks.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season to you and your loved ones.
Mark G. Ackermann
President and CEO
