DSHS

Established in 1881, Greater Spokane Incorporated is a Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Council in the Northern region. Based in Spokane, Wash., it focuses on four key areas, such as economic development, workforce development, public policy and small business. The organization's body comprises approximately 1,200 members that represent around 100,000 employees in the region. Greater Spokane Incorporated offers opportunities for business promotions, improvement of business skills and to get involved in the community. Additionally, it addresses issues related to workforce and education. The community organization allows membership from various industries, including government, wholesale, financial, professional, retail and construction. Greater Spokane Incorporated has affiliations with International Trade Alliance, Northwest Natural Resources Institute and Leadership Spokane.

Since 1971, Lilac Services For The Blind, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, has been helping blind and partially sighted people take back control of their lives. Lilac Services For The Blind is a gateway to freedom and independence for more than 1300 individuals each year. Our purpose is to provide the services and encouragement needed to enable participants to reach their potential level of independence. We continually update our services in order to meet the needs of our participants. As our primary service, the Independent Living program provides in-home training, which includes adaptable communication methods, home management skills, activities of daily living, personal adjustment, techniques for maximizing use of residual vision and adaptive aids, orientation, mobility instruction, and more. Another significant service is our adaptive computer lab where participants learn how to use adaptive products including screen reading and magnification software. Other important services provided are our expanding Braille transcription services, Braille library, adaptive aid demonstrations, low vision department including free evaluations, magnifier loaner program, support groups, and information and referral services. With every life changed for the better, our mission statement is fulfilled and our services prove successful.