The Chicago Lighthouse
for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Since its founding in 1906, The Chicago Lighthouse's services have evolved from a solely charitable orientation to one in which employment, education, clinical and social programming serve a broad variety of people with disabilities. For over 90 years, The Lighthouse has continuously improved and added programs to meet the needs of new groups, from World War II veterans to the increased numbers of infants born with multiple disabilities.

Today, The Lighthouse is the only comprehensive private rehabilitation agency in Illinois whose primary target population is children and adults who are blind, visually impaired, deaf-blind, and blind with additional disabilities. Over 50% of the people we serve have at least one disability in addition to their visual impairment such as developmental, orthopedic, neurological and/or auditory disabilities. The Lighthouse serves people from across the Chicago metropolitan area, throughout Illinois and the surrounding states.

Our Vision
The Lighthouse will generate access to a future of independence with dignity for all people who are blind or visually impaired through quality, comprehensive programs and active community leadership.

Our Mission
The Lighthouse exists to create opportunities for blind and visually impaired people, including those who are multi-disabled. The Lighthouse develops and promotes effective programs which (1) optimize the potential for independent living; (2) assist in achieving maximum economic self-support; and (3) educate the public by promoting the abilities of people who are blind or visually impaired.

Our Values
People come first. We value enhancing individual self-worth through people friendly services that respect and empower clients to achieve independence with dignity and economic self-sufficiency.

Programs of quality. We value innovative, forward thinking and comprehensive approaches that challenge individuals to be their best. We strive to offer choices that satisfy customers and that are constantly improving in scope and quality.

Partnerships that connect. We value teamwork that builds bridges between community, business and government agencies to support the goal of providing job opportunities and independent living for people with disabilities.

Problem solving approach. We value positive thinking and problem solving which are proactive, efficient, thorough and knowledge-based. We expect excellence and accountability in individuals, departments and management.

Personal and professional staff development. We value and recognize the importance of recruiting, training, and retaining a diverse, highly competent staff. Staff who put people and quality programs first will be rewarded and offered opportunities for growth.

Guiding Principles
We will foster an environment of cooperation, diversity, trust, open communication, and respect for all individuals.

We will encourage self improvement, empowerment through responsible decision-making, and leadership within the agency and throughout the community.

We will provide a comprehensive range of innovative, quality programs that meet the changing needs of people who are blind, visually impaired and multi-disabled.

copyright ©1999 The Chicago Lighthouse.
All rights reserved.