Reflections on a Beautiful Day: The 2025 EnVision 20/20 Luncheon
On a picture-perfect day in Palm Beach, with sunlight glinting off the water and yachts gently swaying in the marina, guests gathered at a beautiful yacht club for the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches’ annual EnVision 20/20 Luncheon. The setting was serene, the mood joyful, and the mission clear: to support individuals living with vision loss in achieving independence and opportunity.
A Warm Welcome and a Powerful Program
From the moment guests arrived, they were met with heartfelt hospitality—valet attendants, palm-lined walkways, champagne toasts, and the warm smiles of Lighthouse team members. The day began at 11:00 a.m. with a VIP Meet & Greet hosted by Sherlock Washington—entrepreneur, Paralympic athlete, and lifelong advocate for the blind. His gracious presence and inspiring story set the tone for an uplifting afternoon.
At 11:30 a.m., the Champagne and Teacup Auction opened with over 75 exciting packages donated by local businesses, ranging from fine dining and spa experiences to unique getaways. Guests bid generously, knowing that each dollar raised would fuel critical services for our community.
Leadership, Gratitude, and Recognition
Executive Director Lisa Stella welcomed attendees with a message of gratitude and purpose, highlighting the Lighthouse’s commitment to empowering individuals with vision loss. The energy in the room was one of shared hope and heartfelt support.
One of the most meaningful moments came during the David B. Cano, M.D. Servitude Award presentation, honoring two pillars in the Lighthouse community, Dr. Scott Gartner and Blanca Gartner. Their compassion and unwavering support exemplify the Lighthouse spirit and continue to inspire others to serve.
Inspiration Through Music and Storytelling
Guests were then treated to a stunning musical performance by Islay Rodriguez, a seasoned guitarist known for blending flamenco, jazz, and pop into captivating instrumental pieces. His music filled the room with emotion, elevating the day’s spirit.
Following the music, Sherlock Washington took the stage again to deliver an Inspirational Address that left a lasting impression. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa at age seven, Sherlock has spent his life breaking down barriers for the blind and visually impaired. His words were a powerful reminder that inclusion, empowerment, and advocacy must be part of our daily mission.
To close the event, Allen Preston delivered a stirring Call to the Heart, inviting guests to deepen their support for Lighthouse and its mission to provide independence and opportunity for those with vision loss.
Moments That Touched Every Heart
Among the afternoon’s many unforgettable moments, one stood out to longtime supporter Roshan Massoumi, one of our valued supporters and the event’s Valet Underwriter:
“The moment of greatest excitement and emotional impact came when Carmencita took the podium. With her graceful presence and confident delivery, she spoke eloquently—and then revealed to the audience that she is a client of the Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Her authenticity and poise truly moved the room. Carmencita is not only a compelling speaker but also a remarkable ambassador for the Lighthouse mission.”
Page Ferrell, another supporter of the Lighthouse for the Blind had this to say about the Envision Luncheon:
"The highlight of our Spring luncheon has been at the Sailfish Club the beautiful setting on the intracoastal and wonderful food they serve. This year was a great success as the purpose for helping to provide services for persons who are visually impaired and blind was especially explained by Sherlock Washington our speaker and by the board member Allen Preston. Many people who attended were very deeply touched by their speeches and their message of hope .The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches provides services that teach daily living skills and meet the client where they have needs to live a productive life for daily living. The luncheon brings clients ,supporters and donors together. The community support on the island of Palm Beach was evident in the donations to the Auction of 2025 we were excited by their participation and giving us the publicity we were hoping to receive."
It’s moments like these that remind us why we gather—to amplify voices, build understanding, and celebrate strength within the community.
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors
This event was made possible by the generosity of our sponsors:
- Visionary Sponsor: Maria Beaudouin
- Anchor Sponsors: Shawn M. Donnelley & Christopher M. Kelly
- Venue Sponsor: Page Ferrell
- Beam of Light Sponsors: Harmsco Filtration Products, The Jorgensen Foundation, Transdev
- Table Sponsor: Margaret Donnelley
- Guiding Light Sponsors: Foreign Auto Services, Mittleman Eye Center, Allen Preston
- Valet Underwriter: Roshan Massoumi
Friends of the Lighthouse: Walter Bauke, Kim Clawson, Mary Estelle Curran, Brenda Fritz, Gardens Wealth Management, Dr. & Mrs. Scott A. Gartner, Low Vision Solutions, Arlette Gordon, Marjorie Potter-Kolb, and S. Jane Rose
We are also deeply grateful to our auction donors and volunteers—your kindness and generosity power our mission.
A Special Thank You to SoChill Media
Our heartfelt thanks to Mike Souza of SoChill Media for donating videography services and capturing the essence of the EnVision 20/20 Luncheon. Mike spent hours capturing the beauty, strength, and spirit of our blind and visually impaired community, creating a powerful video that truly showcased the heart of Lighthouse and the vibrant spirit of our community.
Because of your support, Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches continues to provide tools, training, and opportunity to individuals with vision loss. Together, we are the LIGHT.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit: lighthousepalmbeaches.org
