Dear Lighthouse Family,
As we welcome the sunshine and energy of summer, I wanted to take a moment to share just how busy—and inspired—we have been over the past few months.
Between hosting our Kids Summer Camp and participating in several health fairs throughout the county, we have been actively expanding our presence in the community and deepening our impact. We are so proud of the momentum we have built—and there is even more to celebrate.
I am absolutely thrilled to share that our fifth Heroes Event, held in partnership with American Heritage Schools, was a tremendous success! We were moved by powerful, emotional testimonies from two Lighthouse clients and energized by the overwhelming community support. Not only did we surpass our fundraising goal, but this year’s Heroes event has become our most successful yet. Thank you to everyone who helped make this milestone possible.
We are also growing in exciting ways at the leadership level. Please join me in warmly welcoming Diane Schachtman as our new Vice President of Development! Diane brings over two decades of fundraising expertise, strategic philanthropy, and donor relations experience to Lighthouse, and we are so fortunate to have her on board.
Additionally, I am overjoyed to officially announce that José Lopez has been appointed our new Vice President of Public Affairs & Government Relations. José has already made incredible progress in securing financial support from our local municipalities. With his leadership, we are now positioned to amplify our advocacy efforts at the state and federal level.
Together with Tranique Merritt, our Grants and Donor Relations Manager, our dynamic Development Leadership Team, is ready to take Lighthouse to the next level of excellence.
On behalf of our Board of Directors and Lighthouse staff, I wish you a joyful, safe, and restorative summer. Thank you for being part of our Lighthouse Family and for continuing to shine your light in support of our mission.
Ellyn Drotzer, MSW, LCSW
President and CEO
Important Notice: Facility Renovations in the Coming Months
Our facility will be undergoing renovations in the coming months. To stay informed about any temporary changes to service locations, social activities, and potential building closures, please contact us directly or visit our website for real-time updates.
Call the front desk at 954-463-4217 (Dial 0) or visit www.lhob.org for the latest information.
Thank you for your understanding and support!
Important Building Closure Dates & Updates
• LHOB Closed for 4th of July, Friday, July 4th, 2025
• LHOB Closed for Labor day, Monday September 1, 2025.
LHOB Social Groups and Activities: For all events you must RSVP in advance as space is limited.
Zumba Class: Every Friday from 12:30p.m. – 1:30p.m. except for July 4th. Join us for a fun and energetic Zumba class that combines dance and fitness! This class features high-energy music and dynamic dance moves that provide an excellent cardio workout while improving coordination and rhythm. While most of the movements can be adapted for a seated position, there will also be some standing routines to elevate your heart rate and boost your mood. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this class is designed for everyone to enjoy! Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
Arts & Crafts: Every Thursday from 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. Join us for adapted arts and crafts projects including painting with tactile lines, clay work, sewing, and floral arrangements. Activities vary each week. Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
Book Club will meet on the last Friday of every month from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. For more information, please contact the front desk at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited; you must RSVP.
July 25th – Guiding Emily, by Barbara Hinske, Fiction, DB 109068
August 29th – Ethel Rosenberg: An American Tragedy, by Anne Sebba, Nonfiction, DB 121958
September 26th – Eruption, by James Patterson and Michael Crichton, Thriller (Fiction), DB 121769
Trivia Group: July 11th, August 1st, and September 5th from 10:00am-12:00pm. When raucous laughter is heard in the halls of the Lighthouse, you can be sure it comes from the trivia group. Questions on a variety of subjects are read by a volunteer, and anyone who thinks they have the answer is free to call it out. Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
BINGO: July 18th, August 8th, August 15th, September 12th, and September 19th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Join us for Bingo with Brailed cards and large print cards. There are prizes for the winners. Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
In-Person Problem Solvers Support Group for past clients with Dr. Alan Katell: Thursday July 10th, August 14th, and September 11th from 11:00am – 12:00pm. This support group offers a space for past clients to connect with others who have similar experiences. Instructors lead discussions on relevant topics and challenges that members with visual impairments may be encountering. This group provides an opportunity for individuals to share their experiences, insights, and strategies, fostering a supportive environment where members can exchange ideas, offer mutual encouragement, and work together to find effective solutions. Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
Descriptive movies: Join us on select Thursdays for a movie, popcorn, and treats. The movies will be shown in Classroom Two from 10:00am – 12:00pm. Please RSVP at 954-463-4217 ext. 110. Space is limited.
July 3rd – Nonnas (English): After losing his beloved mother, a man risks everything to honor her by opening an Italian restaurant with actual grandmothers as the chefs.
July 17th – Back in Action (Spanish): Former CIA spies Emily and Matt are pulled back into espionage after their secret identities are exposed.
August 7th – Logan Lucky (English): Two brothers attempt to pull off a heist during a NASCAR race in North Carolina.
August 21st – The Adam Project (Spanish): After accidentally crash-landing in 2022, time-traveling fighter pilot Adam Reed teams up with his 12-year-old self for a mission to save the future.
September 4th – The Life List (English): A woman revisits her childhood aspirations, endeavoring to achieve her old goals, only to discover that pursuing these lifelong dreams takes her on an unforeseen and surprising journey.
September 18th – Enola Holmes (Spanish): When Enola Holmes, Sherlock's sister, discovers her mother is missing, she endeavors to find her, becoming a super-sleuth in her own right as she outwits her famous brother and unravels a dangerous conspiracy.
*Dates, time, and location of social activities are subject to change please visit our website at www.lhob.org/publications or call our activities line at 954-463-4217 ext. 8 for Up-To-Date information on social activities and meetings. *
Support for Past and Present LHOB Clients:
Last Wednesday of the month – July 30th, August 27th, and September 24th from 1:00-2:00. This support group is to help participants who want to connect with other individuals who are visually impaired. Instructors will discuss strategies for dealing with stress and anxiety. Members of this group can connect; share their experiences, coping strategies, and their strength and hope.
Join the call: https://www.uberconference.com/room/lhobsupport
Optional dial-in number: 954-451-0380
No PIN needed.
International Access Numbers:
https://www.uberconference.com/international
Special Events for Past and Current LHOB Clients:
• Current and Past clients are invited to the art show opening for Angelo Caruso on Friday August 29th. Caruso is an artist who is interested in making art accessible to all. The event is scheduled for 1:00-2:30 at Ritter Gallery at Florida Atlantic University Address: 152 Breezeway, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Clients should save their spot by calling the front desk.
• Save the date for the White Cane Celebration to be held on October 17th. More information to come.