1-888-565-3852 | info@etxlighthouse.org | 411 West Front Street, Tyler TX 75702

50 YEARS
OF IMPACT
Learn More
2026 Camp Lighthouse Learn More
Image of kids at a zip line event during Camp Lighthouse

WELCOME TO EAST TEXAS LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND

We're so glad you found us!

East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind has been empowering the blind for almost 50 years. Originally created to serve the employment needs of the local community, we now create opportunities and remove barriers across the nation! We strive to be a beacon of hope by restoring independence and confidence for those who are blind or visually impaired through facility-based and online training and programs. Our hope is that every client we meet is empowered to live life to the fullest, despite their diagnosis.

We create customized service plans for each client based on their aspirations, not ours. We want everyone to feel as independent and confident as possible, but with us, it’s all about you. Our team members are approachable, easy to work with, and strive to make each encounter meaningful and productive. In fact, many are blind themselves.

We understand taking that first step is difficult, but you’ll be glad you did!

If you or a friend could benefit from knowing us, understanding our services, or receiving actual training, let’s get the ball rolling! We promise we won’t share your information, and applying is NOT a commitment from you. It just lets us know you’re interested and want to know more.

Access services below or call us and do it over the phone. We can’t wait to meet you!

woman shopping for assistive aids at East Texas Lighthouse Low Vision Store

Low Vision Store

Located at 411 West Front Street in Tyler, TX, the East Texas Lighthouse Low Vision Store carries high-quality adaptive technology and low-vision devices featuring a wide range of magnifiers, screen readers, and talking devices to assist in the home or office. Tools range from high-tech to incredibly low-tech, and training is available for all. Guests can try out various items to see what works best for their needs.
Image of blind man washing dishes

Independence

Ingrained in all of us is a desire to reach certain levels of independence. While we all begin life depending on others for essentially everything, we are designed to eventually apply what we’ve learned and become independent. The transition from dependence to independence comes easier for some than others. For those with learning disabilities, physical handicaps or other obstacles, the road to independence can be difficult to navigate.
young boy using magnifying glass to read a book

Education

East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind (ETLB) offers educational programs designed to prepare teens and young adults for life beyond high school. Through our college preparatory program, scholarship program, and annual summer camp, teens and young adults who are blind or have a visual impairment have the opportunity to equip themselves with the skills necessary to conquer their transition goals.
image of woman instructor working with student in front of a computer

Professional Development

We believe that when you combine eager learners with marketable skills, you find magic. Our approach is simple: Empower blind and visually impaired individuals to be efficient and proficient in the most widely used business software systems in the world while creating an inclusive environment, lasting professional relationships, and confidence to ensure continued success.

image of blind woman working at her desk on a computer at East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind

EMPLOYMENT

Being blind, visually impaired or dealing with changes in vision should not prevent anyone from having a successful professional career. Through advanced technology and training available at the East Texas Lighthouse and our partnerships with employers in Smith County, there is a pathway for those seeking a job or advancement in their current role.

East Texas Lighthouse is not only the largest employer of those who are blind in East Texas, but our vision is connecting committed employment partners with qualified job seekers in Smith County, where blindness is not a barrier to employment.

where we serve

Headquartered in Tyler, TX, the East Texas Lighthouse physically serves 40 local counties. While we do have a stated service area, we welcome calls from anyone and will help however we can. If we can’t provide what you need, we’ll connect you to the right people.

Latest News FROM EAST TEXAS LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND

man using app on smartphone
Read More
50th Birthday celebration banner
Read More
Image of Alicia Lansford in red blazer with text that says In Focus Radio Interview
Read More

GET INVOLVED WITH EAST TEXAS LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE BLIND

CHANGE LIVES

If you’re looking to get involved, like what you’ve read so far, and want to be part of changing lives and empowering others, check out the opportunities below. Don’t worry if blindness or low vision isn’t in your wheelhouse, we’ll train you!

VOLUNTEER

Volunteering is a great way to partner with us, learn more about our mission, and help empower those who are blind or visually impaired.

STAY INFORMED

Stay in the loop for upcoming classes, trainings, workshops and webinars. Just click the button below to complete the brief sign up form!

DONATIONS

General donations and sponsorships are greatly appreciated. Sponsorships allow individuals and businesses to give towards a specific program or event.

East Texas Lighthouse Logo