Hosted by Garfield Bowen, the September 28 episode, “What Changes When A Community Treats Blindness Like A Solvable Problem,” highlights Lighthouse’s work with individuals and families across the region. The 14-minute conversation covers services ranging from early intervention and family education to technology training, rehabilitation, and support for adults experiencing vision loss.

Supporting Individuals Across a Lifetime

During the conversation, Joan shared how Lighthouse works with people at every stage of life, including babies born with little or no vision, children, teenagers, working-age adults, and seniors experiencing vision loss.



She also discussed the importance of supporting parents and caregivers. For young children with visual impairments, Lighthouse educators can work directly with families in their homes, providing guidance and helping parents understand how to support their child's development.

Lighthouse has provided education and rehabilitation services in the community since 1946 and currently serves Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties.

Helping People Adjust to Vision Loss

Joan also spoke about the emotional and practical challenges that can accompany vision loss. People who experience significant changes in their vision may worry about losing the ability to drive, work, participate in hobbies, or manage everyday routines.

Lighthouse helps clients learn new techniques and use adaptive tools and technology to approach these activities differently. As Joan explained during the podcast, advances in technology have created new opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired to access information, communicate, work, and manage daily activities independently.

Technology is an increasingly important part of Lighthouse's work. The organization provides technology and digital training to help clients use accessible devices, software, and other tools in their daily lives.

Looking Ahead to 80 Years and Beyond

The podcast conversation also highlighted Lighthouse's 80th anniversary year. Founded in 1946, Lighthouse is celebrating eight decades of serving people who are blind or visually impaired throughout Southeast Florida.

As part of the anniversary celebration, Lighthouse will host its 80th Anniversary Gala on December 3, 2026, at The Pelican Club in Jupiter. The event will bring together community members, families, partners, and supporters to recognize the organization's history and look toward the future.

About the Good Neighbor Podcast: Treasure Coast

Connecting Treasure Coast Residents with Business Owners, Professionals and Community Leaders! The Good Neighbor Podcast: Treasure Coast, hosted by Garfield Bowen, bridges the gap between Treasure Coast residents and the businesses, professionals, and community leaders who help make the Treasure Coast a great place to live, work and grow.

Discover the people and stories behind the businesses, organizations and communities that make the Treasure Coast unique. Because they're not just leaders and owners; they're your neighbors! Proud to be the #1 Treasure Podcast and Port St Lucie Podcast.

Proudly serving Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Palm City, Sebastian, Stuart, Vero Beach, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Fellsmere, and Indiantown.

Visit https://gnpTreasureCoast.com to learn more and schedule your free interview.