13 Oct Empowering Independence: Celebrating Ability During Blind Awareness Month and NDEAM

Each October, we celebrate two meaningful observances that reflect the heart of our mission at the East Texas Lighthouse: Blind Awareness Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Together, these observances remind us that individuals who are blind or visually impaired are not defined by what they can’t do, but empowered by all that they can.

For almost 50 years, the East Texas Lighthouse has been breaking barriers and expanding opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. What began as an effort to serve employment needs in the local community has evolved into a multi-faceted organization offering training, employment, and independence for individuals across East Texas. At Horizon Industries, our manufacturing division, more than half of the workforce is blind or visually impaired. Each employee contributes essential skills to produce products used by government agencies and businesses nationwide.

Employment as Empowerment

NDEAM, first recognized by Congress in 1988, highlights the importance of creating inclusive workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. This year’s national theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” recognizes the value and talent American workers with disabilities add to our workplaces and economy and highlights their achievements both past and present.

When individuals who are blind or visually impaired have access to the right tools, training, and technology, they can thrive in nearly any career. Through Assistive Technology Training, Orientation and Mobility programs, and Career Services, we help individuals build confidence and gain the skills needed to compete in today’s workforce. From learning to navigate a workplace independently to mastering adaptive software like JAWS and ZoomText, our team empowers clients to reach new levels of independence.

Beyond the Workplace

While employment is a powerful step toward independence, it’s only part of the story. The East Texas Lighthouse offers services that nurture growth and self-reliance across the lifespan. Through youth development programs, transition training for teens, and adaptive technology and daily-living instruction for adults, we help individuals maintain independence and lead meaningful, productive lives no matter their level of vision.

Raising Awareness and Changing Perceptions

Blind Awareness Month is also about challenging misconceptions. People who are blind or visually impaired may be limited by their vision, but so much more often by society’s perceptions. When employers, educators, and communities learn to see ability before disability, we all benefit from a more inclusive world.

Each October, the Lighthouse also proudly hosts East Texas White Cane Day, a community celebration honoring the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired. The event brings together advocates, families, and local partners to raise awareness of the importance of independence, mobility, and accessibility for all.

Throughout October, we invite our community to celebrate these observances by learning more, hiring inclusively, and advocating for accessibility in every space. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply sharing our message, your support helps the Lighthouse continue its mission of empowering independence and transforming lives.

This month and every month, let’s work together to prove that ability shines brightest when given the opportunity to thrive!