Nestled on the historic grounds at 1850 W Roosevelt Road, the Chicago Lighthouse is
an institution that resonates with a profound sense of purpose and community service.
Recently, Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse President Kurt Lentsch, Secretary
Steve Clements, and photographer Barry Butler had the distinct pleasure of touring this
esteemed facility, delving deep into its programs and services to enrich the lives of its
patients and clients.
The visit, while symbolic, was marked by a profound sense of synergy. Although the
names - Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and The Chicago Lighthouse - bear a striking
resemblance, their shared missions truly unite them. A common goal drives both
organizations: to provide opportunities and support to those they serve.
As our group traversed the corridors of The Chicago Lighthouse, we were met with a
palpable sense of dedication and compassion. We learned firsthand about the myriad
programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals with vision impairments and
other disabilities. From rehabilitation services to employment opportunities, The
Chicago Lighthouse leaves no stone unturned in its pursuit of empowerment and
inclusivity.
Their Industries Division has hand-assembled more than six million high-quality wall
clocks since 1977 for sale to federal, state, and municipal agencies and the commercial
market. Each one is built with pride by people who are blind or visually impaired. If
you’ve been in a federal building within the past 40 years, those building clocks were
assembled at the Chicago Lighthouse facility.
Moreover, our discussions with The Chicago Lighthouse's staff and leadership
illuminated the potential for collaboration and partnership. As we explored synergies
between our respective missions, it became abundantly clear that our organizations
possess complementary strengths that, when combined, can yield even greater
outcomes.
We thank The Chicago Lighthouse for opening their doors and hearts to us. Together,
we embark on a shared mission of empowerment, inclusivity, and opportunity, united in
our commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
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