East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind Inc

08/29/2025

We’re proud to once again host an ATIP-TX cohort and welcome a group of aspiring Assistive Technology instructors this week who are blind or low vision. This comprehensive hybrid program runs from August through November each year, and equips participants with the tools, technical knowledge, and teaching skills needed to provide contracted AT services for Vocational Rehabilitation across Texas.
This is only our second cohort, and already all four graduates from last year are working in the field! We're excited to support the next wave of leaders in assistive technology!

08/27/2025

This is what it’s all about!
Our final week of the College Prep Program was packed with powerful presentations, fun outings, and a whole lot of celebration. And now, our students are stepping boldly into their next chapter.
We’ve watched these students grow in confidence and independence, and we couldn’t be more proud. Here’s to the first day of college and the bright futures ahead!

08/26/2025

This photo of Kayden is too good not to share again on National Dog Day. 🐾

Today is National Dog Day, and we're excited to spotlight Kayden, a guide dog for our intern, Chance Agorastos. Kayden, a Labrador Golden Retriever mix, was trained by Dogs Inc. According to Chance, the company primarily works with Labs as they are food motivated, making them easier to train.
Kayden responds to numerous typical commands such as "sit" and "down," as well as specific commands when harnessed and on duty, such as "halt" and "forward."
Using the treat/reward system, Chance has taught Kayden several new commands to locate chairs, doors, elevators and other common objects.
The perfect combination of a fun companion and a dependable helper, Kayden is a tail-wagging ball of energy when off duty, but takes his job seriously when the harness is on.
With Kayden at his side instead of his cane, Chance notices a difference in how he is perceived when out in public. "People are much friendlier and seem to perceive my situation as more normalized, less strange and more approachable. They seem more comfortable to talk, ask questions and joke around."
While Chance enjoys Kayden's company and the assistance he provides, owning a guide dog also comes with a heavy dose of responsibility. "When using a cane, I can fold it up during a conversation or when eating at a restaurant. With Kayden, it is constant babysitting, as I have to be aware of what he is doing. I can’t stay out too late at trivia night or the church social because, as much as I don’t mind skipping dinner, Kayden works hard and has to eat! Overall though, I am very glad to have him, and he is happy to work so hard for his new best friend."

08/25/2025

It’s just not the same around here today without Chance Agorastos, but we’re so proud of the path he’s on, and to be part of his journey.

Chance has been part of the Lighthouse family for years, growing through our programs and leaving his mark as a dedicated team member. While we miss seeing him every day, we’re thrilled to share that he’s continuing his college journey at UT Tyler and has just accepted a part-time position in the campus IT department!
Chance, your future is bright and we’re cheering you on every step of the way!

08/22/2025

We’re proud to be part of the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) network, creating opportunities for people who are blind while strengthening America’s workforce.
From manufacturing to innovative services, these jobs fuel independence, resilience, and a brighter future for individuals, families, and our nation!

By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation   Since the earliest days of our history, our Nation's future has been

08/20/2025

2025 East Texas White Cane Day Shirt Reveal!
We’re excited to unveil this year’s official shirt for East Texas White Cane Day, happening Friday, October 24th at Bergfeld Park in Tyler from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Join us for a day of celebration, education, and community featuring vendor booths, food trucks, and a group walk around the park at 10:30. Every attendee will receive a free event shirt (one per person)!
If you're an educator interested in bringing a group of students, contact us about receiving your shirts ahead of time!
Learn more about East Texas White Cane Day at https://www.easttexaslighthouse.org/white-cane-day/

08/15/2025

August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month!
School is back in session, and vision plays a major role in your child’s success. From spotting the board to reading a book, good eyesight supports strong learning and confidence in the classroom.
Our latest blog shares helpful tips on eye exams, signs of vision problems, and how to protect your child’s eyes, both at school and at play.
Check it out now at easttexaslighthouse.org/new-schoolyear

08/13/2025

Representing from paradise!
Here’s our friend John Berry sporting his East Texas Lighthouse shirt all the way from Hawaii. We love seeing the different places our gear travels and the people proudly wearing it!
Planning a trip soon? Don’t forget to pack your Lighthouse shirt, snap a photo, and send it our way! You might just see yourself featured next!

08/11/2025

Our final Camp Lighthouse Sponsor Spotlight goes to ETX Brewing Co., a vital partner in making Camp Lighthouse possible!
Through their annual Blind Ambition event, ETX Brewing Co. helps raise the funds needed to send local teens who are blind or visually impaired to camp. We’re so thankful for their creativity, generosity, and continued partnership. Cheers to making a difference, one pour at a time!

08/08/2025

We’re proud to shine a Sponsor Spotlight on Region 7 ESC, a valued partner and supporter of Camp Lighthouse!
Region 7 works tirelessly to improve student performance and ensure that children with visual impairments have equal opportunities to learn and succeed. Their Visually Impaired program is a powerful resource in our community, and we’re grateful to collaborate with them throughout the year on events and initiatives that uplift students and families.
Thank you, Region 7, for your ongoing partnership and your commitment to empowering the next generation!

08/06/2025

Next up on our Camp Lighthouse Sponsorship Spotlight Tour: Southside Bank!
We’re incredibly grateful to Southside Bank for their generous support of Camp Lighthouse! As a longtime champion of local nonprofits, Southside continues to invest in organizations that uplift our community, and we’re honored to be among them.
Thank you for helping us empower blind and visually impaired students across East Texas!