The Lighthouse of Houston

Serving the Blind and Visually Impaired

3602 West Dallas, Houston, Texas 77019
Phone 713-527-9561
http://www.houstonlighthouse.org

The Website is divided into the following main sections:

About

The Center for Education and Adaptive Technology Community Services Center Residential Services
Support Us
Volunteer
Get on our Mailing List
Contact Us
Upcoming Events
News
Material Safety Data Sheets

ABOUT

Who We Are

Established in 1939, The Lighthouse of Houston is a private, nonprofit education and service center dedicated to assisting blind and visually impaired people to live independently. The Lighthouse serves approximately 7, 000 people each year and is a member agency of the United Way of Greater Houston.
The primary goal of the Lighthouse of Houston is direct service to the individual. This includes not only providing direct service, but a continual commitment to improving the quality and relevance of this service. All other organizational activities and functions are in support of this primary focus and have as their goal the development and dissemination of better service designs and interventions in order to enhance the optimal functioning of the individual.
The Lighthouse receives financial support from a variety of sources including the Lighthouse Foundation, United Way allocations, government service contracts, contributions, industrial product sales and fees for services. A board of directors provides organizational oversight, while an appointed president and CEO leads a management team.

What We Do

The Lighthouse of Houston offers a wide variety of educational programs, community services and outpatient rehabilitation for the blind and visually impaired.
The Center for Education & Adaptive Technology and the Community Services Center are located at 3602 W Dallas. These centers are the main site for Lighthouse programs and services. This main location serves as a central campus uniting Lighthouse programs, services and administrative functions, providing easy access to all of our resources and educational and training programs.
The Lighthouse of Houston Industrial Division is located at 3530 West Dallas. The Industrial Division produces disinfectants, detergents, glass cleaners and floor care products to fulfill Federal and State contracts.
The Lighthouse also provides Residential Services at its Living Centers.

THE CENTER FOR EDUCATION AND ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGY

The Lighthouse of Houston has developed the Center for Education and Adaptive Technology to assist in supporting and enhancing the functioning of persons with visual impairment and committed to exploring ways to expand technology, training and education.

What We Offer

The large facility, with its many classrooms and state-of-the-art technology, has helped to bring about strategic relationships – with Stephen F. Austin State University, DARS/Division for Blind Services, the United Way of Greater Houston, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Houston Community College, Houston Independent School District and Texas Woman’s University – that continue to broaden the scope of Lighthouse services.

Our Programs

Lighthouse Education Programs
Office Skills Training: This course focuses on basic office skills and adaptive techniques for performing standard office tasks.  Training includes Keyboarding, Office Equipment, Introduction to Computers, Introduction to Windows, VISTA (with or without adaptive software) Introduction to Word (with or without JAWS, an adaptive speech software), Basic Office Math, Grammar, Spelling and Vocabulary Building.  Upon completion of this course, more specialized training programs are available in telecommunications, customer service or medical transcription.  Length: 6 months for students who already have keyboarding skills; 8 months for students who have no keyboarding skills. Classes start the first Monday of each month.   

Customer Service: This course is designed to prepare a student with the basic office experience or training needed to perform the job duties of a customer service representative.  Training includes Intermediate Keyboarding, Introduction and Intermediate Use of Databases, Customer Service Techniques, and Communication Methods. Length: 6 months. 

Telecommunications:  This course is designed to prepare a student with the basic office experience or training needed to perform the job duties of a switchboard operator or receptionist.  Training includes Intermediate Keyboarding, Intermediate Windows (with or without JAWS), Basic Telephone System Terminology, Customer Services, Phone Etiquette, and Basic Switchboard Operation.  Length: 6 months. 

Medical Transcription Training: The Lighthouse has been training medical transcriptionists since 1973.  A minimum typing speed of 50 words per minute and post-high school level spelling and grammar are required to begin the program.  Training includes Advanced Medical Keyboarding, Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology, Human Diseases, Introduction to Laboratory, Pharmacology, and Medical Ethical Issues.  Length: 18 months. 

Distance Medical Transcription Training:  In 2006, after many years of successfully training medical transcriptionists at its Houston campus, the Lighthouse began medical transcription training on the Internet.  Length:  18 months.

Computer and Technology Training
Computer and Technology training is available through The Lighthouse of Houston’s Computer Learning Center and the Technology Training Unit.  Both facilities are located in the Center for Education and Adaptive Technology and provide access to the latest in adaptive equipment developed specifically for people with visual impairments.  To schedule an appointment for a technology evaluation, training or consultation, please call Teresa Garza at 713-284.8445.

Computer Learning Center: 
Self-Guided Computer Training - is designed to provide the adaptive technology and materials necessary to master various software programs in a self-paced lab environment for high-functioning, self-motivated students.  This program provides the equipment and instructional material on audio software for the following training:  Introduction to Personal Computing, Windows, Word, Excel, Outlook, JAWS for Windows, JAWS for Word, JAWS for Excel, and screen magnification. Group Instruction in using the Internet, emailing and specific computer programs such as Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 is also available. 

Technology Training Unit:
Adaptive Technology Evaluations - Adaptive Technology Evaluations consist of one-on-one assessments of adaptive technology with an experienced instructor.  These evaluations are required by state agencies prior to state purchase.  They are also a perfect way for individuals to test out adaptive hardware and software devices before they buy them.  The Lighthouse provides evaluations on CCTVs, portable CCTVs, screen reading software, OCR scanning technology, screen magnification software, voice recognition software, QWERTY note takers, Braille note takers, and displays and printers. 

Adaptive Technology Training - Adaptive Technology Training is designed to provide one-on-one instruction in adaptive technology equipment and application software, including Internet and E-mail instruction.  This instruction can take place at the Lighthouse or off-site in the home or at work. Appointments are available from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Evenings and weekend appointments can be made by special request.

Reflections, the Lighthouse Store
Reflections is devoted to offering visionary solutions to make life easier for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.  The store offers adaptive aids such as talking clocks, Braille watches, mobility canes, computer hardware and software and hundreds of other items – available both at the store and through the Reflections Sales Store Catalog.  At the store, Lighthouse staff is available to demonstrate the most helpful products depending on the individual’s specific needs.  Reflections is open to the public 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.  To receive a copy of the catalog or to place an order, please call 713-284-8466.

The items in the Catalog are listed below:

MOBILITY CANES
100 - Ambutech Folding Cane - $25
Deluxe aluminum cane with black rubber handle, white metal casing and
double elastic cord. Cane length in 2” increments between 32” to 62”.

100A - Ambutech Mushroom Cane Tip – Hook On  - $4

100C - Folding Cane Carrying – Black Nylon - $17

100D - Ambutech Roller Tip – Hook On - $12

100SB - Ambutech Slip On Roll Ball Tip - $14

104 - Non-folding, Adjustable Support Cane - $30
Easily adjusts to any height ranging from 29” to 37”.

RECORDERS & PLAYERS
201 - Large Cassette Recorder - $340
Larger version of the Handi Cassette Recorder. Same features.
Measures 11” x 11” x 3”.

201A - Carrying Case for Large Recorder - $25

201B - NI-Cad Battery for Large Recorder - $29

202B - Panasonic Recorder/Player - $114
Plays 4-track cassettes and records in 2 track. Uses four
“C” batteries or AC adapter.

TALKING ELECTRONIC DEVICES
301 - Handheld Talking Calculator with Alarm Clock - $20
Announces entries and results.

302A - Utmost Talking Calculator - $26
Talking desk-sized calculator with large display. 5”x 6 7/8”.
Requires 2 AA batteries.

305 - Talking Large Pyramid Desk Clock - $20
Large button on top. Time and alarm functions on
bottom. Available in English or Spanish. Please specify.

306 - Atomic Alarm Clock - $56
Announces Date/ Day/ Time.

307 - Talking Small Curve-shaped Alarm Clock - $12
Large button for time announcements. Small time and alarm buttons.
Large LCD Display. Hourly Report.

308A - Black Talking Clock - $12

310 - Talking Key Chain Clock with Alarm - $14

310A - Talking Key Chain Clock with Alarm — Spanish - $14

312 - Talking Timer and Clock - $20
Multi-purpose timer with clock. Counts up and down. Six different
alarm sounds. Comes with a clip, magnet, and stand.

313 - Noteteller Talking Money Identifier - $300
Announces denomination of U.S. currency when inserted.

314 - Color Teller - $195
Clothing color identifier

315 - Talking Indoor/Outdoor Thermometer - $25
Voice announces indoor and outdoor temperatures. Digital display.

316 - Talking Fever Thermometer - $16
Compact design and clear voice are ideal for use on the body.

319 - White Raised number/Braille Telephone - $25
Big button phone features Braille on each raised key. Speakerphone,
13 number memory, redial, desk/wall mountable.

319F - Big Button Phone JTP390 - $15
Black or White, please specify. 13 number memory, speakerphone,
redial, desk/wall mountable.

320 - Oversized Universal Television Remote Control - $50
Features illuminated ¾” push button controls. Operates on 4 AA
Batteries. Measures 5 1/2” x 8 1/2”.

320A - EZ TV Remote - $17
Small, simple remote with 6 oversized buttons

321 - Talking Caller ID - $45
Announces name, number, date and time.

321A - Talking Caller ID - $21
Announces caller number. Audio review of last 10 calls including
date and time.

321C - Large Display Caller ID - $30
Displays name, phone number, calling time. Stores 99 names
and numbers. Includes AC Adaptor

328 - Talking Alarm Clock - $13
Triangular shape with oversized face and hands. Large button on top
announces time. Large black numbers. Hourly report.

LOW VISION CLOCKS & TIMERS
401 - Quartz Low Vision Wall Clock - $28
Large, 1 ½” numbers. Available in black with white numbers or white
with black numbers. Please specify.

401L - Lighthouse Large Number Wall Clock - $30

402 - Marktime Braille Timer - $27
Times up to 60 minutes. Short alarm sound.

403 - Low Vision Timer - $15
Bold, black 1 ½” numbers on white background. Times up to 60 minutes.
Long alarm sound.

MEN’S & WOMEN’S WATCHES
308 - Casual Talking Wrist Watch - $9
Traditional black face with black band. Digital display.

308C - Spanish Talking Watch - $12
Casual wrist watch. Black face with black band.

309 - Silver-tone Talking Watch - $18/$22
Metal with leather or expandable band. Please specify.

500 - Ladies’ Silver-tone Braille Watch - $68
Silver-tone expansion band. Never needs winding.

501 - Ladies’ Gold-tone Braille Watch - $75
Quartz watch with gold-tone casing and band.

520 - Men’s Silver-tone Braille Watch - $68
Silver-tone expansion band.

521 - Men’s Gold-tone Braille Watch - $75
Quartz watch with gold-tone casing and band.

521 - Low Vision Watch with Large Face - $38
Features big, easy-to-read numbers.

537 - Men’s Talking Watch — Bicolor - $45
Silver and Gold face and band.

541 - Men’s Chrome Talking Watch - $45

543 - Ladies’ Gold-tone Talking Watch - $30

544 - Ladies’ Silver-tone Talking Watch - $30

GAMES
600 - Braille Playing Cards - $10

602 - Large Print Playing Cards - $5

610 - Braille Uno Playing Cards - $21

607 - Braille Bingo Cards - $9
Large print cards with Braille and raised numbers.

608 - Large Print Bingo Cards - $2.50

608A - Braille Chess Game - $26
Wooden board with peg holds for game pieces.

609 - Braille Dice - $6
Two per package.

611 - Braille Dominoes - $20

612 - Jumbo Dominoes - $15

613 - Checkers - $18
Tactile game board features alternating raised and recessed squares.
Checkers come in both large and small round shapes.

614 - Low Vision to No Vision Chinese Checkers - $30

617 - Braille Scrabble Game - $80

617A - Low Vision Scrabble Game - $60

618 - Braille Monopoly - $80

619 - Basketball with Bell - $45

619A - Football with Bell - $35

620 - Jumbo Dice - $6
Black or white 1” squares. Easy to see.

621 - Braille Skip Bo Game - $25

BRAILLE PAPER
701 - Three-Hole Punched Paper 8 ½” x 11” - $30
Heavy-weight manila transcribing paper used with Braillers.
500 sheets per package.

703 - Three-Hole Punched Paper 11” x 11 ½” - $30
Heavy-weight manila transcribing paper used with Braillers.
500 sheets per package.

WRITING SUPPLIES
800 - Bold Line Writing Paper - $5.25
Unpunched white paper with bold black lines on both sides of page.
Measures 8 ½" x 11”. 100 sheets per pad.

803 - Complete Raised-Line Drawing Kit - $35
Kit contains 25 polyester sheets, clipboard and stylus for writing
and drawing.

804 - Replacement Sheets - $7.50
Package of 25 polyester sheets for raised line kit.

806  - Letter Writing Guide - $5
Sturdy plastic sheet with line slots for easy writing.
Measures 8 ½” x 11”.

807 - Gray’s Check Guide - $7
Practical two-part guide for standard checks. Clips hold check in
place while writing.

810 - Envelope Guide - $3
Business size envelope.

812 - String Metal Signature Guide - $6

812A - Small Black Plastic Signature Guide - $1
Credit card-sized writing guide with a ½” signature opening.

BRAILLE ITEMS
901A - 5-Line, 19-Cell Janus Interline Slate Kit - $7.50
Durable plastic frame. Stylus included.

902 - 6-Line, 19-Cell Slate with Stylus - $15
Howe Press aluminum with eight lines.

903 - 4-Line, 28-Cell Slate - $15
Howe Press aluminum with four lines.

904 - 4-Line, 37-Cell Slate with Stylus - $15

905A - Slate Pouch - $10

909 - Standard Stylus - $6
Stylus with black wooden handle.

908 - Braille Eraser - $6
Large wooden eraser.

912 - 3M Braille Labeler - $50
½” roll of Dymo Tape included. Head features both Braille and
regular print.

913 - Clear Labeling Dymo Tape - $2
½” wide tape used in Braille labeler.

913A - Teflon Skived Tape - $5.75

917 - Dymo Holder - $40
Holder attaches to Brailler so Dymo Tape may be Brailled.

920 - Pocket-sized Notebook - $8
Six-ring binder holds 3” x 5” paper. Can also hold slate.

921 - Pocket-sized Filler Paper for Brailling - $7.50
Package of 250 sheets. Fits pocket-sized notebook.

KITCHEN HELPERS
1001 - Double Spatula - $9
Cooking aid makes food handling easy. Handles separate for single
spatula use.

1004 - Measuring Cups - $7
Five different-sized, color-coded measuring cups with raised letters
and numbers.

1006 - Klick Lock Padlock - $12
Lock works with parallel levers instead of dial. Can be opened by
feeling or hearing the clicks.

1009A - Black and White (back to back) Cutting Board - $30

1009C - Paddle Style Cutting Board (Black) - $14
Black background provides high contrast while cutting food.

1010 - Low Vision Cutting Board (White) Wedge - $11

MEASURING & MARKING AIDS
1104 - Fiberglass Measuring Tape - $10
Large print markings with tactile indications every ½”.
1104A - 12” Braille Ruler (Metal) - $12

1104B - 18” Braille Ruler (Plastic) - $4

1108 - Locator Dots - $2.50
Clear dots for easy marking and identification. Useful for keyboards,
cell phones and appliances. Six dots per package.

1109 - ID-Markers (Maxi-Marks) - $5.50
Twenty-four black dots with thick, adhesive backs.

1109A - Slashes and Dots - $5.50
Black with adhesive backing.

1110 - Bump Dots - $4.50
Large, black round dots with adhesive backs.

1110B - Bump Dots - $4.50
Medium, clear round dots with adhesive backs. 20 per pack.

1110C - Identifying Markers - $4.50
Small, orange dots with adhesive backs.

1110D - Small Bump Dots - $4.50
Clear, round dots with adhesive backs. 20 per pack.

1116 - Braille Clothing Tags - $11

SEWING AIDS
1200 - Sewing Machine Magnifier - $13
Magnifies 2 ½ times original size. Securely adheres to any sewing machine.

1201 - Self Threading Needles - $3
Package of six. Thread is stretched across slot at end of needle and
pulled into the eye.

1201A - Sewing Machine Needles - $4

1202 - Wire Needle Threader - $1.50
Package of three threaders with wire loop on each.

1203 - Hexe Needle Threader - $3
Plastic, free-standing threader. Easy to use.

BRAILLE & LARGE PRINT BOOKS
1400A - Large Print Appointment Calendar - $18

1400 - Wall Calendar - $5.50
11” x 17” calendar with bold lines and room to write appointments.

1401 - Address Book - $15
Oversized writing spaces with three listings per page.

1402A - Large Print Bible - $56
King James version. Black leather bound. 18-Point Type.

1404 - Large Print Check Register - $5
Easy to read, large type. Measures 8 ½” x 11”.

1409A - Large Print Puzzle Book - $3
Crossword puzzles or circle the word.

MAGNIFIERS
407 - 4x Silver Magnifier Pendant with Chain - $20

407A - 4x Gold Magnifier Pendant with Chain - $20

1499 - Around The Neck Magnifier (3x) - $9
Hands Free

1500 - 5” Bar Reader Magnifier - $6

1500A - Syringe Magnifier - $8

1501B - 9” Bar Magnifier with Yellow Highlight - $9

1502 - Page Magnifier - $4
Magnifies a page of text twice its original size. Measures 6” x 9”.

1503 - Pocket-size Magnifiers - $10
Donnegan brand magnifiers available in 5x magnification. Each
measures 1” x 1 ½” and slides out of attached protective case. Black.

1503A - 4x Pocket Magnifier - $6

1504 - 3x and 7x Magnifier set - $8

1504A - 4x and 9x Magnifier Set - $8

1507 - 4x Lighted Handheld Magnifier - $10

1507A - 4x Handheld Magnifier - $18

1511 - 5x Stand Magnifier - $30
Round.

1511A - 5x Handheld Magnifier - $26

1512 - 6x Hollow Globe Magnifier - $25

1512A - Jupiter Lens 4x - $35
Clear view magnifier with 4x lens. Lens size 63mm.

1513 - Big Eye Desk Lamp with Magnifier (2.5x) - $73
With 2 ½ times magnification and 5” diameter lens.
2 High intensity bulbs included.

1513A - Big Eye Two Arm Desk Lamp with Magnifier (2.5x) - $85

1514 - Big Eye Floor Lamp with Magnifier (2.5x) - $95
With 2 ½ times magnification and 5” diameter lens.

1514A - Brandt Floor Lamp - $135

1515 - Additional Lamp Booster (2.5x) - $25
Magnifier addition has 2 ½ times magnification and may be combined
with original lamp lens for 5x enlargement.

1516 - Replacement Lens - $23
For use with “Big Eye Desk Lamp” or “Floor Lamp”. Features
2 ½ times magnification.

1517 - Big Red Eye Lamp Replacement Bulb - $4
40 watt bulb.

1518 - 3x Stand Magnifier - $36
Rectangle.

1520A - Optivisor DA-10 - $36
3.5x Precision binocular headband magnifier, hands free.

1520E - Optivisor DA Loupe Attachment - $7
Adds 2.5x magnification.

1521A10 - 10x Magnifier with Light - $20

1521F - 3x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light. Battery operated.
Aspheric Lens provides low image distortion.

1521B - 5x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1521C - 7x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1521D - 9x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $51
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1515 - Additional Lamp Booster (2.5x) - $25
Magnifier addition has 2 ½ times magnification and may be combined
with original lamp lens for 5x enlargement.

1516 - Replacement Lens - $23
For use with “Big Eye Desk Lamp” or “Floor Lamp”. Features
2 ½ times magnification.

1517 - Big Red Eye Lamp Replacement Bulb - $4
40 watt bulb.

1518 - 3x Stand Magnifier - $36
Rectangle.

1520A - Optivisor DA-10 - $36
3.5x Precision binocular headband magnifier, hands free.

1520E - Optivisor DA Loupe Attachment - $7
Adds 2.5x magnification.

1521A10 - 10x Magnifier with Light - $20

1521F - 3x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light. Battery operated.
Aspheric Lens provides low image distortion.

1521B - 5x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1521C - 7x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $40
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1521D - 9x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $51
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light.
Battery operated.

1521E - 11x Coil Pocket Magnifier - $52
Pocket-sized, handheld magnifier. Features xenon light. Battery operated
Battery operated.

1530 - 6x Schweizer Hand Magnifier - $35

1530A - 8x Stand Magnifier - $42

1530B - 8x Schweizer Handheld Magnifier - $30

1531A - 3.9x Coil Raylite Series 2 - $55
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1531F - 5.4x Coil Raylite Series 2 - $55
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1537 - 7.1x Coil Raylite Series 2 - $55
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1531B - 8.7x Coil Raylite Series 2 - $57
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1531C - 10.1x Coil Raylite Series 2 - $59
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1531D - 12.1X Coil Raylite Series 2 - $59
Coil Raylite series. Handheld and battery operated.
Features xenon light.

1532A - 4x LED Magnifier - $40

1532B - 5x LED Magnifier - $40

1532C - 7x LED Magnifier - $40

1532D - 8x LED Magnifier - $40

1532E - 10x LED Magnifier - $40

1533 - 3x Magnifier Mini Magnificator - $12

1541 - 6x Pocket Magnifier - $14

1550 - Coil Magnifier Replacement Bulbs - $3

1550A - XENON Bulbs (Coil Replacement Bulbs) - $4.50

1563 - Nail Clipper with Magnifier - $9

1566 - Quicklook Portable CCTV 6x - $795
LCD Flat Screen Display. Weighs only 10 oz. 4 contrast levels for
Image enhancement. Built in rechargeable battery.

MISCELLANEOUS
98B - The Lighthouse of Houston Sweatshirt - $25
Available in L, XL and XXL.

923 - Keychain Neck Rope - $1.75

924 - ID Neck Pouch - $4

1600 - Solar Shield Sunglasses (Amber) - $10
BRN Sunglasses large enough to be worn over prescription lens.

1600 - Solar Shield Sunglasses (Yellow) - $10
Sunglasses large enough to be worn over prescription lens.

1600 - Solar Shield Sunglasses (Black) - $10
BLK Sunglasses large enough to be worn over prescription lens.

1600P - Eye Patch - $5

1605A - Talking Compass – Directional - $95
Speaks English or Spanish.

1606 - “Say Stop” Liquid Level Indicator - $12
Attaches to the rim of a cup. Plays tune when cup is full.

1608 - Weekly Pill Organizer - $2.50
7-slot, large print design organizes pills by each
day of the week.

1609 - Daily Pill Organizer - $9
28-slot design organizes daily medications into morning, noon,
afternoon and nighttime compartments. Stores up to one week’s
medications. Compartments feature raised numbering, lettering and Braille.

1614 - 20/20 Pens - $1.50
Bold line pen for easy reading and writing. Ink does not bleed
through paper.

1616 - Leather Money Organizer Wallet - $30
Compartments for paper money, change and credit cards.

1616N - Men’s Folding Leather Wallet - $30

1617A - Adhesive Computer Key Letters — Black with White Letters - $25

1617B - Adhesive Computer Key Letters — White with Black Letters - $25

1617C - Adhesive Phone Numbers—Black with White Numbers - $1

1619 - Sock Tucks - $4.50

COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTER

What We Offer

Our Programs

Adult Day Care
The Adult Day Care program provides structured day activities for persons who are blind and have a medical condition which qualifies them for multi-care services. Adult clients, many of which are seniors, participate in an array of therapeutic activities, education, and other support services throughout the day. Transportation is provided as well as daily telephone contact with client and/or family members.

Community Independence Program
Community Independence Services (CIS) focuses on meeting the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals living in the community by reducing isolation and enhancing ties to the sighted community.

Community Outreach Component
This program provides community organizations with resource and referral and information on technologies for vision impairment.

Therapeutic Recreation
Programs for the blind and visually impaired include an on-site fitness facility, swim lessons, art and cooking classes, monthly tandem bike rides, field trips, animal therapy, dance classes, camping trips and other fun activities. 

Infant, Youth and Child
Infant, youth and children’s programs provide opportunities for children and their families to interact and have fun while learning new skills.  Activities include Summer Camp, the School’s Out Program, Parent-Infant meetings, the annual Beeping Easter Egg Hunt, Teen Enrichment Program and Saturday recreation activities.

Vision Rehabilitation Clinic
On-site clinical evaluations and recommendations help individuals maximize low vision in order to participate in everyday activities.  Professional and experienced staff members provide one-on-one assistance with rehabilitation exercises and adaptive aids such as magnifiers and microscopes to ensure that clients receive proper care and treatment.

Outpatient Rehabilitation
Diabetes Education Management Services - This program, certified by the American Diabetes Association, provides full-service education and training to visually impaired diabetics using adaptive medical equipment.  Group and individual classes are available.  Funding sources include Medicare, private insurance and self pay.

Orientation and Mobility Training - Instructors teach the blind and visually impaired to travel independently in the community.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Lighthouse Living Centers

The Lighthouse Living Centers are HUD 202 subsidized apartments, located in southwest Houston, for people who are blind, visually impaired or physically-handicapped.  Residents must be able to live independently.  Rents are based on income.  Applicants must have a certified physical disability.  To apply, call 281-530-1236 (Lighthouse Living Center I) or 713-988-4236 (Lighthouse Living Center II). 

SUPPORT US

Donate to the Lighthouse

At the Lighthouse of Houston, we believe that the next century will bring many challenges and changes to the way society views the blind and visually impaired.  Securing a promising future for the blind and visually impaired of Houston will require the combined efforts of Lighthouse professionals, dedicated volunteers and, perhaps most important, generous donors who recognize the importance of investing in the future of our mission.
The Lighthouse of Houston wants to ensure that the blind and visually impaired lead successful, productive, and happy lives.  You can be a part of these developments and changes, by bringing light into an otherwise dark world.
Your gift will take us significantly toward that goal.  Thank you!
All gifts are tax deductible.  For more information on donating to The Lighthouse of Houston, call 713-284-8420, or write or send e-mail to Gibson M. DuTerroil, President, The Lighthouse of Houston, 3602 West Dallas, Houston, TX  77019, gduterroil@houstonlighthouse.org.

The Lighthouse Bricks:  Recognize Someone Today

Buying a Lighthouse Brick is a wonderful way to honor – or remember – friends, family and loved ones.  Each brick becomes a part of the Brick Plaza, located in front of The Lighthouse Center for Education and Adaptive Technology.  Bricks are $100 each.

The Lighthouse Prints

The Lighthouse of Houston recently unveiled a new piece of art designed exclusively for the organization by Brady Smith, a nationally recognized artist and former Lighthouse volunteer.
A limited quantity of signed, numbered Lighthouse prints are available for purchase for $100.00 each.*  Prints can be purchased at the Center for Education and Adaptive Technology, located at 3602 West Dallas, or by calling 713-284-8438.  All purchases will benefit The Lighthouse of Houston.
Contact us today and get your limited edition print while supplies last!
*An additional $9.00 shipping and handling charge will be added to all phone orders.
About the Artist - Brady Smith is a nationally recognized artist whose art has been featured across a variety of well-known artistic mediums.  Most notably, Smith created three installation canvas pieces for NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and has had his art regularly featured on NBC’s Late Friday.  In addition to television, his work has also been featured in numerous print publications, including Orange Coast Magazine, Texas Monthly, the Houston Chronicle, Surfing Magazine and Inside Houston.
Smith is also an accomplished illustrator, design and publisher.  His portfolio includes work for American Express, Nabisco and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Most recently, he completed a 30-foot mural for the United American Indian Involvement, Inc.  Smith also publishes the Brady Chronicles, originally illustrated journals of his travel experiences around the world.  The Chronicles cover Brady’s adventures in Peru, Montana, the Bahamas and Pamplona and can be purchased at www.amazon.com.

Automobile Donations

You can support services to the blind and visually impaired by your donations of a used car, boat on a trailer or RV. Your donations will help to make possible programs that might not otherwise have been possible.

VOLUNTEER

Become a Volunteer

The Lighthouse offers volunteer opportunities for every schedule.  Some activities such as home visitors require a weekly commitment; others such as special events are as flexible as once or twice a year.  In addition to working with individual volunteers, the Lighthouse works with schools, churches and community groups to arrange special volunteer opportunities for their members.  All volunteers are required to complete an application and to attend orientation.  Volunteers are a vital part of the success of The Lighthouse of Houston.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Deborah Ramos at 713-284-8473 or dramos@houstonlighthouse.org.

Volunteer Opportunities

Home Visitor - Assist blind adults with grocery shopping, mail reading, letter writing, bill paying and/or running errands.  Commitment: 1-2 times a month.  Adult, Family.

Telephone Reassurance - Call homebound clients to determine well-being and provide friendship.  Commitment: 2-4 times a month.  Adult, Family.

Medical Transportation Aide - Provide transportation for clients during the week to and from medical appointments.  Commitment:  This is an “on call” position; volunteers work only when available.  Adult.

Living Center Grocery Shopper - Take a small group of residents of this southwest Houston apartment complex the local grocery story and assist them with shopping.  A Lighthouse vehicle will be provided.  Commitment:  About 2 hours, one Saturday a month.  Adult, Family, Group.

Task Force – Assist with mailings, filing, answering phones, etc.  The Lighthouse offices are open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Commitment:  Varies depending on availability and need.  Adult, Junior.

Adult Basic Education Tutor - Tutor adult students during class.  Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.  We can also arrange for tutoring outside those hours here at the Lighthouse.  Commitment:  Varies depending on availability.  Adult.

Record on Tape – Record textbooks, manuals, etc., on tape.  We will provide the tape recorder and tapes.  You can volunteer at the Lighthouse during business hours.  Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  Commitment:  Varies.  Adult.

Adult Day Care Assistant – Assist with recreation classes, serve coffee/lunch, and offer companionship to blind/visually impaired persons in this day program.  Commitment:  Varies depending on availability and need.  Adult, Family, Junior, Group.

Summer Transition Program – Help teenagers in this school-to-work program in personal adjustment, production, and recreation.  Commitment:  Varies depending on availability and need.  Adult, Junior, Group.

Store Sales – Assist in our store, Reflections, selling adaptive aids in a retail setting, including catalog and telephone orders.  Needed during lunch hours.  Commitment:  Varies depending on availability.  Adult.

GET ON OUR MAILING LIST

If you would like to get on the mailing list for The Lighthouse of Houston, please contact Ms. Laura Oppermann, 713-284-8438, or email loppermann@houstonlighthouse.org.

CONTACT US

Mailing Address:
The Lighthouse of Houston
3602 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice: 713-527-9561; Fax: 713-284-8451

General Information:  713-284-8438
Education Programs:  713-284-8445
Volunteer Services:  713-284-8473

The Center for Education and Adaptive Technology
3602 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice:  713-284-8445; Fax: 713-284-8451
E-mail:  tgarza@houtonlighthouse.org

Community Services Center
3602 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice: 713-284-8494; Fax: 713-284-8468
E-mail:  czander@houstonlighthouse.org

Industrial Division
3530 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice: 713-526-8251; Fax: 713-526-9841
E-mail:  gduterroil@houtonlighthouse.org

Community Services Center-Southwest
8640 Wednesbury
Houston, Texas  77074
Voice: 713-995-1243; Fax: 713-995-4581
E-mail:  czander@houstonlighthouse.org

Living Centers I and II
E-mail:  smoran@houstonlighthouse.org

Reflections, the Lighthouse Store
3602 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice:  713-284-8466
E-mail:  reflections@houstonlighthouse.org

Customer Service (Information on Industrial Production, Material Safety Data Sheets, Pricing, Order Placement, Shipping and Routing, Customer Service)
3602 West Dallas
Houston, Texas  77019
Voice: 713-526-8251, ext. 460; Fax: 713-526-9841
E-mail:  custsvc@houstonlighthouse.org

For specific information, contact:
Adult Day Care Services – czander@houstonlighthouse.org
Case Manager – tgarza@houstonlighthouse.org
Customer Service – custsvc@houstonlighthouse.org
Diabetes Education – twebb@houstonlighthouse.org
Education Programs – tgarza@houstonlighthouse.org
Lighthouse Products – products@houstonlighthouse.org
Recreation Services – recreation@houstonlighthouse.org
Technology Training – tgarza@houstonlighthouse.org
Public Relations – loppermann@houstonlighthouse.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

On the Horizon
July 22-27 – Association for Educators in Rehabilitation Conference (Chicago).  Jennifer Blando, Director of the Lighthouse Distance Medical Transcription Program, speaks on “Distance Transcription Training: A New Framework for Success,” Thursday, July 24.

October 22-25 – National Industries for the Blind Conference (Houston).  Jennifer Parrish, a certified medical transcriptionist with The Lighthouse of Houston, will receive the 2008 NIB Employee of the Year award.

***Help the Lighthouse improve its services. Complete our Online Survey! ***
The Lighthouse of Houston would like your input on its services and programs.  The survey is for Lighthouse employees, board members, clients and family members of clients.  You must be at least 18 years of age to participate.  Go to http://tinyurl.com/3jp476.

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

These documents are to provide U.S. businesses and workers with information about how our products should be handled and stored in the workplace. They are available in Adobe Acrobat .pdf format.  If you do not have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader, please visit the Adobe site and download it.