Learning to get around without sight takes practice, and at Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee in West Palm Beach, that practice starts early. WPTV reported on the organization’s training and technology programs during a visit to its campus.
Executive director Lisa Stella said the Lighthouse serves people from babies to seniors across five counties: Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee. For children, programs include sensory-based activities and lessons meant to help them take part in the community.
Youth services director Elizabeth Prus said mobility training often begins with young children, who learn to use a white cane so they can travel on their own. During the WPTV visit, reporter T.A. Walker wore a blindfold and swept a cane across about the width of his shoulders while Prus guided him. The cane picked up a chair and a kitchen island in his path.
The Lighthouse also teaches screen technology. Brandon Butzberger showed ZoomText Fusion, software that combines screen narration with magnification. Tekesha Saffold demonstrated audio software she uses to work on a computer.
Both are former Lighthouse clients who now work for the agency. Butzberger is an adjustment to blindness counselor, and Saffold is an intake specialist.
