Help Low-Vision New Yorkers with Technology!

Lighthouse Guild is the leading not-for-profit healthcare organization dedicated to addressing and preventing vision loss. Our mission is to provide exceptional services that inspire people who are visually impaired to attain their goals. With Lighthouse Guild, people who are at risk for, or affected by, vision loss have access to all the resources necessary to lead full, independent, and productive lives. We provide services, research and education, and advocate to help people with low vision and blindness. Our vision is a world in which no person is limited by their visual capacity.

In a national AFB study, 21% of blind/low-vision participants reported encountering at least one web accessibility obstacle every day. Tech-Savvy Saturdays helps replace those barriers with real-time support and confidence.

For many adults with low vision, everyday digital tasks—checking email, filling out forms, shopping online, or searching for information—can feel overwhelming without help. When technology becomes a barrier, people can feel frustrated, isolated, and left behind.

Tech-Savvy Saturdays is a new volunteer opportunity that pairs tech-comfortable volunteers with an inclusive and diverse group of Lighthouse Guild Access Center clients for one-on-one support with digital needs. This support strengthens independence, connection, and daily life skills. Volunteers sit side-by-side with clients to troubleshoot and practice real tasks on the client’s own device. Small wins add up—one completed form or email reply can restore a client’s confidence and sense of control.

Basic familiarity with smartphones and everyday technology is required; on-site staff support and a recommended training in advance of the event are provided.

Volunteer Role

• • Support clients 1:1 with everyday digital tasks such as:
  • Reading and responding to emails
  • Completing online applications and forms
  • Searching the internet
  • Shopping online
  • Navigating common apps and settings
  • Use clear and patient communication to empower clients for success in navigating technology and to build their digital confidence.
  • Flag accessibility barriers to staff so we can improve support and resources

Volunteer Details

This is an in-person volunteer opportunity. Volunteers participate on site alongside Lighthouse Guild staff.

• • Date: Saturday, February 28th, 2025
  • Time: There will be two sessions. You can choose from one or do both:
    • One in the morning from 10:00am - 12:00pm.
    • One in the afternoon from 12:30 - 2:30pm.
  • Location: Lighthouse Guild, 250 West 64th Street (between Amsterdam & West End Avenues), New York, NY