The Chicago Lighthouse Communications Center (also known as the Call Center) was created in April of 2009 to address the need for more extensive training, through a transitional employment model that eventually leads to permanent employment.  This concept was derived from the need to develop an in-house system that provides transitional employment for program participants prior to placement in permanent positions.  It allows individuals to gain valuable skills that will make them more marketable in the work place, while instilling and building a work ethic. 

The Communications Center performs tasks related to programs and projects within The Chicago Lighthouse in order to maximize department and organization efficiency.  Through the Communications Center, disabled transitional employees will work 20 hours a week, between 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, and are housed at The Chicago Lighthouse.  Employees work for a 6 month period and are cross-trained to perform all tasks associated with the operations and functions of the Call Center. 

Typical Call Center duties include scheduling doctor’s appointments, answering calls and solving client issues for the Low Vision Clinic, providing front desk assistance, coordinating data entry for Lighthouse Industries, and processing surveys for the Low Vision Research Department. 

Transitional employees are assigned to placement counselors within The Chicago Lighthouse in order to obtain permanent employment.  Each placement counselor works with the intern and administers a structured job retention process that includes job coaching, consistent site visits and staffing sessions that will address performance barriers and ensure sustained employment.

For more information, contact:
Sheila Perkins
Director of Employment Services|
The Chicago Lighthouse
1850 W. Roosevelt Rd.|
Chicago, Illinois  60608

Tel: 312-997-3647
Email:  Sheila.Perkins@chicagolighthouse.org