Lighthouse Executive Director Lisa Stella Shares the Mission on Let’s Talk Charity
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.
Serving Individuals “From Birth to Earth”
One of the key messages from the interview was the broad range of support the Lighthouse provides. As Lisa explained, the organization serves individuals “from birth to earth,” meaning services are available for babies, children, teens, adults, and seniors at every stage of life.
For young children, that support often begins at home. When a family learns their child has vision loss, the experience can be emotional and overwhelming. Lighthouse teachers work directly with families in their homes to help children build developmental skills, navigate their environment, and learn how to interact with the world around them in ways that support growth and independence.
Lisa emphasized that these services are not just for the child—they are also for the entire family. Parents and caregivers are given tools, guidance, and encouragement as they adjust and learn how to best support their child.
Helping Adults Rebuild Confidence After Vision Loss
The interview also highlighted the unique challenges faced by adults who lose vision later in life. Whether vision loss is caused by illness, diabetes, injury, or another condition, it can feel devastating and disorienting.
Lisa spoke candidly about what that transition can look like. Many adults initially feel as though their life has been put on hold. But through Lighthouse services, they begin to relearn the everyday tasks they once took for granted—cooking, organizing, using appliances, navigating their home, communicating with others, and traveling safely.
These services often include:
- Independent living skills training
- Orientation and Mobility instruction
- iPhone and technology training
- Group learning opportunities
- Community outings and social connection
Lisa shared that one of the most rewarding parts of the work is seeing clients move from fear and uncertainty to laughter, confidence, and a renewed sense of possibility.
The Power of Assistive Technology
A major focus of the interview was the role of assistive technology in helping people live more independently.
Lisa described some of the tools clients use every day, from magnifiers and screen readers to smartphones and voice-enabled technology. She also highlighted one of the most exciting recent developments: Meta smart glasses.
These glasses can help users identify items, understand what’s in front of them, and interact with their surroundings in ways that were previously much more difficult. Lisa shared how this technology has opened up new possibilities for clients, including translating spoken language and helping users identify food and household items.
Her message was clear: this is an exciting time for accessibility, and technology is helping create more opportunities for people with vision loss to live fully and independently.
Independence, Opportunity, and Community
Throughout the interview, Lisa reinforced an important truth: blindness or visual impairment does not make someone “less than.”
She spoke about the importance of accessibility, employment opportunities, transportation, and community support. She also shared how the Lighthouse works to help individuals build job skills, gain confidence, and prepare for meaningful careers.
From youth services and transition support to adult instruction and social programs, the Lighthouse is committed to helping individuals not only meet daily challenges—but also pursue their goals and thrive.
Celebrating 80 Years of Service
As the Lighthouse marks its 80th anniversary, this interview served as a meaningful opportunity to raise awareness about both the mission and the growing need in our region.
Lisa also spoke about upcoming events, community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and the importance of continued support to help sustain and expand services in the years ahead.
Her message to anyone experiencing vision loss was simple but powerful: this is not the end—it is the beginning of a different chapter.
Learn More About the Lighthouse
The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee provides services for children, teens, adults, and seniors who are blind or visually impaired. Through education, training, support, and community engagement, the Lighthouse helps individuals build the skills they need to live healthy, confident, and independent lives.
If you or someone you love could benefit from Lighthouse services, or if you’d like to support our mission, we invite you to learn more, get involved, or schedule a visit.
Watch the full interview and see how the Lighthouse is making a difference across our community.
