Many people have asked me why I'm traveling so much lately. I've even been asked at my booth "you're a Lighthouse...why are you here?" While this story isn't the exact reason, it's an example of the ultimate goal. I want to put East Texas Lighthouse for The Blind on the map, and even more importantly, in the conversation. Because we showed up, we were able to be a connector. I met Nicko Sahlas at the CSUN conference in California two years ago. We were exhibitors, sharing our training services for those who are blind. He was looking for native users of assistive technology to help improve the accessibility of Ulta overall. I knew I wasn't the answer, but rather I had the answer. I was able to not only tell those like Nicko and Ulta Beauty who we were as a National Industries for the Blind affiliated agency but was also able to share the work of known partners like Ablr 360. Fast forward 2 years. John Samuel made good on my promises and served Ulta and Nicko with their accessibility program. Success! Was this a financial ROI for me? Nope. But was it an impact ROI? You betcha. This connection will ultimately have a positive effect on those who are blind in a much larger scale than we could ever provide directly. Moral of my story? Show up. Even if you aren't the biggest player on the field, show up. If you believe in your work, your products, your mission, and yourself, show up. You never know who's listening.
John Samuel of Ablr 360 was in town last Friday and we were able to meet at Ulta Beauty. John and I met over a year ago thanks to Alicia Lansford who made the connection. John and his group at Ablr 360 have helped guide the accessibility program at Ulta Beauty. It was great to connect in person after such a long time and talk about Accessibility. John Samuel thank you for a great day and stopping by Ulta Beauty. Special thank you to Courtney Henderson and Ruby Kuntal for all their support.
Alicia Lansford this is such an awesome post. Several times now I have attempted to explain how many people were involved in bringing this all together and the time it took. You said it perfectly and it is a great reminder to "Show Up". Well said.
What a great story that reveals your passion for bringing people together and making positive change!
You definitely show up every time!! Thank you for all you do for our community!!
That's awesome Alicia Lansford keep doing what you are doing! #respect
Wow, Alicia! This is awesome!
AttaBabyyyy!!! #raiseallllltheboats 💪🏼 Thanks for holding the fire high, Alicia!
Yes, Alicia!!! Love this. You have to show up.
Helping Assistive Technology companies bring revolutionary technology to market and making it available to those who can benefit from it.
1moAbsolutely true that!