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We have wonderful news to share with our Palm Beach County community. At a recent breakfast ceremony hosted by the Ibis Charities Foundation , Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches was awarded a $20,000 grant — a gift that will shine directly into the lives of the children we serve every day. Our entire team was moved by this incredible show of support. This investment in our mission means more resources, more opportunities, and more independence for young people living with visual impairments across the region.

Mark Chapman lost his vision overnight and thought his life was over. At the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, he learned to live independently again and says he is happier now than when he could see. Read his story.

Gabriel survived a violent attack that left him with a 10% chance of living. After losing his sight, he found The Lighthouse and discovered a vision more powerful than anything he had before. Read his story.

Niurka Walker went from driving herself to the eye doctor to losing her sight the same day. At the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, she found the independence and tools to go back to college and rebuild her life.

The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee was recently featured on Let’s Talk Charity with Sherry , where Executive Director Lisa Stella joined the program to discuss the growing need for vision services across our region and the life-changing work happening every day through Lighthouse programs. During the conversation, Lisa shared how the Lighthouse has been serving the community for 80 years , helping individuals who are blind or visually impaired build independence, confidence, and opportunity from childhood through adulthood. 

The teenage years are a time of growth, self-discovery, and increasing independence. For teens who are blind or visually impaired, that journey can come with unique challenges—but with the right support, it can also be filled with confidence, capability, and opportunity. At the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee, transition programs are designed to help teens build the skills they need to move successfully into adulthood—whether that means continuing their education, entering the workforce, or living more independently. Why Independence Matters Independence looks different for every teen, but the goal is the same: to build the skills and confidence needed to navigate the world safely and successfully. For teens with vision loss, this often means learning alternative techniques, using assistive technology, and gaining hands-on experience in real-life situations. Developing independence early helps teens feel more prepared for the responsibilities that come with adulthood—from managing daily routines to making informed decisions about their future.

Learning that your baby has a visual impairment can feel overwhelming. You may have a hundred questions and not know where to begin. You might wonder whether your child will reach the same milestones as other babies, what kind of help is available, or whether you are doing everything you can. The good news is that you are not alone, and early intervention — the services and support available during the first years of life — can make an extraordinary difference.  At Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee , we walk alongside families from the very beginning. This guide is designed to give you a realistic, encouraging picture of what the first year looks like when you have early support in your corner. Why the First Year Matters So Much The first twelve months of a child’s life are a period of remarkable neurological growth. The brain is forming connections at a pace it will never match again, and sensory experiences — touch, sound, movement, and yes, vision — drive that development. When vision is limited or absent, babies can absolutely thrive, but they benefit from intentional strategies that help them explore and understand the world in other ways. Research consistently shows that babies who receive early intervention services in the first months of life have better developmental outcomes than those who start later. This is not a reason for alarm if your child’s diagnosis came later — the brain remains remarkably adaptable. But it is a reason to act quickly once you know, and to feel confident that every step you take right now matters deeply. Getting Connected to Services In Florida, babies and toddlers from birth through age 5 who have visual challenges are eligible for services through the Blind Babies Program. These services are family-centered, often provided in your home, and designed to fit into your daily routine. Your first call should be to your child’s pediatrician or ophthalmologist if you haven’t already received a referral. You can also contact an organization like Lighthouse directly — we can help connect you with the right resources and begin building a support plan alongside your family. You do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis to reach out. Who Will Be Part of Your Team One of the first things families often notice about early intervention is that it involves a team, not just one provider. Depending on your child’s needs, you may work with some or all of the following specialists: Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI): A TVI is specially trained in the developmental and educational needs of children with vision loss. They will guide you in activities that build your baby’s skills and help you understand how your child is taking in the world. Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Specialist: Even for infants, O&M specialists begin laying the groundwork for safe, independent movement by encouraging body awareness and spatial understanding. If your child is receiving additional services, such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy etc., we will collaborate with your child's team to make sure we are working together to meet the child's needs. What Sessions Actually Look Like Many parents imagine early intervention as formal therapy sessions with equipment and clinical settings. In reality, early intervention for infants is woven into everyday life. A specialist might sit with you on the floor while your baby is having tummy time, guiding you in how to use your voice, texture, and contrast to encourage your child to lift their head and reach. They might observe bath time and suggest ways to build body awareness through touch and water play. The goal is not to hand your baby off to an expert — it is to empower you as the parent to be your child’s best teacher. You are with your baby every day. The specialist is your coach, helping you see what your baby needs and building your confidence to provide it. Milestones to Watch For (and How They May Look Different) Developmental milestones for visually impaired babies often happen on a different timeline or in a different sequence than for sighted babies. This is not a sign of a problem — it is simply a reflection of how your child is learning about the world. Here are some things to know: Smiling: Sighted babies often smile in response to seeing a face. Visually impaired babies may smile in response to a familiar voice or touch. If you are not getting the visual smiles you expected, try talking and singing more — you may find your baby lights up at the sound of you. Reaching: Sighted babies often reach toward objects they can see. Visually impaired babies may not reach until they learn to associate sound with an object’s location. A specialist can work with you on “sound localization,” helping your baby understand that a rattle nearby is something worth reaching for. Crawling and Walking: Without the motivation of seeing something across the room, visually impaired babies sometimes have less incentive to move. Early O&M strategies build that motivation through tactile exploration and safe, encouraging environments. Language: Many visually impaired children develop strong language skills early, as they rely heavily on listening. Talk to your baby constantly — describe what you are doing, what they are touching, and where you are going. Taking Care of Yourself Parenting any baby is hard work. Parenting a baby with a visual impairment adds a layer of research, appointments, emotional adjustment, and advocacy that most parents never anticipated. It is completely normal to feel grief, fear, frustration, and love all at the same time. Finding other parents who have been in your shoes is one of the most powerful things you can do. Ask your early intervention team about parent support groups. Organizations like Lighthouse often host family events where you can connect with others navigating similar journeys. You will likely find that the parents a year or two ahead of you on this path become some of your most valuable sources of hope and practical advice. Lighthouse Is Here From Day One At Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee, we have been supporting children with visual impairments and their families for 80 years. Our Children’s Program serves babies, infants, and children from birth through age 13 with individualized services designed to help each child reach their full potential. We know that the first phone call can feel like the hardest one to make. You might not know exactly what you need yet, and that is okay. We will figure it out together. Whether you are looking for direct services, guidance on navigating the school system, or simply someone to talk to who understands, we are here. Reach out to us today at (561) 586-5600 or visit lhpb.org to submit a request for help. Your child’s first year holds more possibilities than you may realize right now — and you do not have to figure it out alone.

Orientation & Mobility (O&M) training is an essential service for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. It focuses on helping people move safely, confidently, and independently through their homes, communities, and everyday environments. At the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast, & Okeechobee, O&M training is designed to meet each person where they are and support meaningful, real-world independence. What Is Orientation & Mobility Training? Orientation refers to understanding where you are in relation to your surroundings. Mobility focuses on moving safely from one place to another. Together, O&M training teaches practical skills that help individuals navigate daily life with confidence. Training may include learning how to: Travel safely indoors and outdoors Cross streets and navigate intersections Use public transportation or ride services Build mental maps of familiar routes Use a white cane or other mobility tools Apply sensory cues such as sound, texture, and spatial awareness  O&M training is always personalized. An O&M Specialist works one-on-one with each client to identify goals, address challenges, and build skills at a comfortable pace.

When vision loss changes how you experience the world, everyday activities can suddenly feel out of reach. But for Anne Hatton Ogden, cooking has remained a constant source of comfort, creativity, and independence. Anne, a Technology Training Specialist at the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee, was recently featured in EatingWell for her inspiring approach to life — and the kitchen — after losing her vision.  👉 Read the full EatingWell feature here

The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast, and Okeechobee is proud to participate in the 2026 Cognizant Classic Birdies for Charity program—an easy and meaningful way for supporters to help expand services for children, teens, adults, and seniors living with vision loss.  This annual PGA TOUR–aligned fundraiser brings local nonprofits together and gives donors a chance to make a direct impact while joining in a community tradition. Every gift helps the Lighthouse continue offering essential programs that build independence, confidence, skill development, and connection for individuals with visual impairments. How the Campaign Works From November 5, 2025 through February 25, 2026, supporters can make a pledge and submit their best guess on the number of birdies PGA TOUR players will make during the Cognizant Classic (Feb. 26–Mar. 1, 2026). A minimum donation of $20 is required to participate. Each entry supports the Lighthouse and counts toward bonus funds the tournament distributes to participating charities based on their fundraising results. A Chance to Win $10,000 Every donor who submits a guess is automatically entered for a chance to win the $10,000 grand prize. The closest guess—without going over—wins. If multiple entries tie, a tiebreaker comes into play: How many balls will land in the water at the Bear Trap? Additional tiebreakers are used only if needed. Your support fuels life-changing Lighthouse programs—and you could walk away with an incredible prize. Two Ways to Participate Choose the option that’s easiest for you: 1. Online Giving : Visit the Cognizant Classic Birdies for Charity website and select Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches as your charity. Make your guess, complete your donation securely, and you’re all set. All online gifts are collected by PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. 2. Cash or Check : Prefer to give directly? Simply fill out the Manual Donation Form, include your guess and donation, and submit it to the Lighthouse office. We’ll enter your submission and ensure it’s counted. Support the Lighthouse here! Your Participation Matters Every entry supports Lighthouse programs that: Help children strengthen communication, mobility, and independence Provide youth with tools to succeed in school and daily life Assist adults in building confidence and adaptive skills Support seniors in maintaining independence and reducing isolation Your gift directly impacts neighbors across Palm Beach County, the Treasure Coast, and Okeechobee—ensuring they receive the support, training, and community they deserve. By joining the Birdies for Charity challenge, you can make a meaningful difference for individuals with vision loss while enjoying a fun and community-driven experience. Submit your pledge, take your best guess, and help the Lighthouse continue its mission across our region. Together, we can brighten even more paths in 2026.

As the holiday season begins, the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches is proud to shine a light on an act of generosity that touched the hearts of dozens of local families. This year, 50 Lighthouse families will enjoy a full Thanksgiving meal thanks to a project led by one person whose dedication continues to ripple outward—Teacher of Blind Babies, Nicole Isaacson .  What began as a simple wish to support families in need evolved into a community-wide effort that resulted in 100 Thanksgiving bags —50 full meal bags and 50 dessert bags—along with a $25 gift card for each family to purchase their turkey. Even more inspiring, this entire project was coordinated outside of Nicole’s working hours.