Virtual SEE THE LIGHT Lunch
October 29^th 2020

Sponsored by

Miami Lighthouse’s annual signature event, our “SEE THE LIGHT” Luncheon, is one of our most important fundraising opportunities during the year. In past years, we’ve welcomed over 250 guests from our philanthropic family to a luncheon with music, entertainment and heartfelt remarks from program participants.

In keeping with the times of social distancing we are going virtual, so instead of 250 guests in a ballroom, we can now have unlimited attendees. Visit this web page on October 29^th we will have a 30 minute program at 12:00pm featuring an exclusive performance by Latin superstar Willy Chirino and Chirino Sisters. We will also feature students in our Lighthouse Learning Center for Children™, Miami Lighthouse client Marin Baumer and a few more surprises!

 

 

My name is Charles J. Nielson and I am the Chair-Elect of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. I introduced myself to Miami Lighthouse in 1987 and for the last 33 years my wife Olga and I have been involved with the organization in various capacities, both financially and organizationally. We have had the privilege of seeing how the various programs and mentoring have given comfort and improved the lives of literally thousands of blind and visually impaired individuals in our community.

It is gratifying to look back and realize that in 1987 Miami Lighthouse served the needs of some 640 blind and visually impaired individuals. This year, we will serve over 25,000 blind and visually impaired men, women, and children of all ages. Miami Lighthouse’s programs for adults teach the necessary skills to be able to be a part of the workforce, as well as assist in the challenges of daily life. Our music and art programs provide the ability to learn and grow in those fields. Most personally gratifying have been the blind babies' and children’s programs. The aid and comfort that the children’s programs continue to have, not just on the babies and children we serve, but their entire families is what has been the catalyst for our continued enthusiasm and support for Miami Lighthouse.

I cannot say enough about our President, Virginia Jacko, and the entire staff at Miami Lighthouse for their capable and tireless energy in serving the blind and visually impaired in our community. I speak for our entire family when I express our deep gratitude for the privilege of being a part of this great organization.

We are very fortunate to have committed and generous donors who continue to support Miami Lighthouse, even during these trying times. However, we need your financial assistance in order to continue to provide, and expand our services to those whose lives are touched and improved by our various programs.

Today, we are asking for your support of our Light the Way campaign, a one-for-one matching challenge to raise $9 million to expand our Miami Lighthouse Learning Center for Children™. An anonymous donor has created a Capstone Matching Challenge to help us reach our goal.  Your gift will now in essence be tripled!

Please join us. Support us. Grow with us. We can’t do it without you. You may make a donation by clicking the DONATE NOW button below or donating on November 19^th by visiting https://www.givemiamiday.org/miamilighthouse.