Our Story

The Lighthouse Story

Founded in 1985, the Lighthouse Vision Loss Center began as Mana-Sota Lighthouse for the Blind, a nonprofit dedicated to serving the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals in Sarasota and Manatee counties. What started as a visionary idea became a reality thanks to a committed group of visually impaired individuals, local eye specialists, and community donors who secured funding and 501(c)(3) status for this essential organization.

Our comprehensive programs include:

Daily Living Skills: Building independence in everyday tasks.

Assistive Technology: Accessing tools and devices for education and work.

Job Readiness: Preparing for employment opportunities.

Support Groups: Fostering community and emotional resilience.

Specialized Programs: For children, youth, and young adults to help them thrive.

Lighthouse programs have empowered thousands of individuals of all ages, enabling them to maintain their independence, embrace new opportunities, and improve their quality of life.

As the only nationally accredited, nonprofit organization in the region offering rehabilitation training at no cost, Lighthouse Vision Loss Center is proud to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for those navigating vision loss. Based in Sarasota, Florida, we remain committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Lighthouse CEO
Alexandra Elman-Foley

Over the past 40 years, Lighthouse has significantly expanded its reach and impact—our services now extend to children, young adults, and families across five counties:

  • Sarasota County
  • Manatee County
  • DeSoto County
  • Charlotte County
  • Highlands County

Mission

When it goes dark, we bring the light back into the lives of the blind and visually impaired. We educate and empower individuals affected by vision loss, enabling them to live happy, healthy, and independent lives.

Vision

To create a community where those with vision loss can thrive, contribute, and achieve their fullest potential. When life dims, we shine the light of opportunity, independence, and hope.

Accreditation

Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center is accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AERBVI) through August 31, 2024. This accreditation reflects our commitment to meeting national standards in:

  • Orientation & Mobility
  • Technology Instruction Services
  • K-12 Education
  • Vision Rehabilitation Therapy Services
  • Identification & Referral

Nonprofit Status

Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center is a recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization. Contributions made to Lighthouse are tax-deductible, helping us continue our mission to serve individuals with vision loss.

Governance

Our organization is proudly governed by a Board of Directors, consisting of eight dedicated business and community leaders from our service area. Their volunteer leadership guides our efforts to make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

We are not the same and that is our greatest strength. At Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center, we recognize that supporting diversity, equity and inclusion is in good conscience, ethical and right and educates and empowers our team more.

Our strength comes from our diversity and we celebrate the qualities that make each person unique, no matter their gender, race, ethnicity, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability. We ensure that all voices are valued and heard.

We are committed to modeling diversity and maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all as an equal opportunity employer.