Voicing the Needs for Change E25
Host David Steinmetz discusses advocacy for people with disabilities, stressing the importance of voicing needs for change. CEO Sharon Giovinazzo, of The Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco, shares her journey from vision loss due to multiple sclerosis to leadership, emphasizing the need for opportunity and empowerment to challenge societal perceptions of blindness.
The conversation centers on dispelling stereotypes, advocating for representation and open dialogue, with Sharon highlighting education, empathy, and positive narratives to change perceptions. David and Sharon stress the importance of normalizing disability conversations, promoting inclusivity, and recognizing blindness as just one aspect of a person’s identity.
David mentioned that Arizona Industries for the Blind is a role model for the community. Demonstrating that with the right training, right technology and the right attitude people who are blind can compete and be successful in the workplace.
This conversation emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and promoting the capabilities of the disability community. David Steinmetz mentioned that “if you don’t tell your story… someone else will and they will most likely get it wrong.”
Founded in 1902, the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired in San Francisco is a beacon of hope and support for individuals facing visual impairment challenges. Nestled in the heart of the city, this renowned organization offers a wide range of services and resources designed to empower and enrich the lives of the visually impaired community.
From adaptive technology training and orientation and mobility classes to employment assistance and social activities, the LightHouse provides a holistic approach to fostering independence and inclusion. The dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to create a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals can learn, connect, and thrive despite their visual limitations.
Through innovative programs and advocacy efforts, the LightHouse continues to shine brightly as a vital resource for the blind and visually impaired in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Sharon Giovinazzo has served as the CEO of LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired – San Francisco since October 2022.
She has more than two decades of leadership experience advocating for and serving the blind and low vision community as President and CEO of the World Services for the Blind, and in various roles at the Raleigh Lions Clinic for the Blind.
During her time at National Industries for the Blind, Sharon led the cultivation and understanding within Congress, Federal Agencies, and other organizations of the AbilityOne program, which leverages federal purchasing power to support community-based nonprofit agencies — LightHouse in San Francisco included — that are dedicated to training and employing individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities.
Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
About Your Host
As the manager of Community and Public Relations, David Steinmetz uses his expertise, education, and personal experiences to “change the perception of blindness.”
Diagnosed with RP, a blinding retinal disease, at the age of 19, David uses his personal story to drive change that leads to improved employment outcomes and community integration for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Mr. Steinmetz graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Economics. Additionally, Steinmetz has continued his education by graduating from the Business Management Training (BMT) program provided by Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia.
In 2008, David was the national recipient of the National Industries for the Blind Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement award. This prestigious award recognized Mr. Steinmetz for his career achievements and community service work.
David Steinmetz is a member of the Governors’ Council on Blindness & Visual Impairments, is a Board Member at the Arizona Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired (ACBVI) and serves his community through the Chandler Lions Club.
Connect with David on LinkedIn and Instagram.
About the Show
Changing the Perception of Blindness; One Conversation at a Time is dedicated to breaking down barriers, de-mystifying blindness and promoting real world solutions that empower people who are blind to live a full and inclusive life.
Host, David Steinmetz connects with organizations, industry professionals and thought leaders who are working to bridge the gap that creates a world accessible for all.
About Arizona Industries for the Blind
Arizona Industries for the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people who are blind. It’s employees, more than half of whom are blind, deliver a variety of products and services, including a full-service Warehousing and Distribution Center, confidential Digital Data Scan (DDS) services for private businesses and government and the operation of Base Supply Centers located at each of Arizona’s three military bases under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Labor’s AbilityOne program.
