In an inspiring event on Saturday, September 21st, over 50 students from Miami Lighthouse for the Blind experienced a thrilling day of interaction with some of the world’s most prestigious high-performance vehicles. The event, which took place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, featured a fleet of nearly 20 exotic cars, including Ferraris, McLarens, Lamborghinis, Vipers, and Porsches. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity was made possible by generous donors and sponsors who aimed to provide an unforgettable experience for these visually impaired students.
A Sensory Adventure with High-Performance Cars
While these students may not be able to see the cars, the event was designed to engage their other senses. The powerful sounds of roaring engines and the vibrations felt from the revving motors provided an exhilarating experience that words can barely describe. For many, this was their first encounter with such high-end automobiles. Virginia Jacko, President and CEO of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind, who is also blind, emphasized the importance of this experience: “For our students that may not be able to see the car, they will hear and feel the roar of the engines. For a number of our students, this will be their first encounter with high-end automobiles.”
Inspiring Confidence and Dreams
The event was not just about the thrill of high-speed cars. It was a carefully crafted experience to instill confidence and inspire these young minds. George Foyo, Past Board Chair of Miami Lighthouse, highlighted the broader impact of this event, saying, “Interacting with the students and seeing their reaction to these vehicles is priceless and will not only broaden their horizons but also inspire them to dream big and reach for the stars.” The message was clear: disabilities should never limit one’s aspirations.
Support from the Community
The success of this event was made possible by the contributions of many supporters. Lead Philanthropic Sponsor Michael Weintraub and Lead Automotive Sponsor The Collection was instrumental in bringing the event to life. Other notable sponsors included Grove Bank & Trust, Baptist Health South Florida, Homestead Miami Speedway, and many others. Their commitment to the cause demonstrated a strong community spirit and a dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of these students.
Engaging with the Students
Miami Lighthouse students participating in the event included Bright Beacons, early elementary school-aged children attending Miami Lighthouse Academy, Pre-Employment Transition Program students aged 14-22, and Miami Lighthouse Music Program students. The event reinforced the organization’s daily teachings that “It’s possible to see without sight™.” This motto was brought to life as students interacted with the vehicles, sat in the driver’s seats, and even went for rides, feeling the acceleration and the power of the cars.
A Day to Remember
The event concluded with heartfelt words from Caterina Sastri, Board Director and parent of a former Miami Lighthouse Academy student. “We are incredibly grateful to the car enthusiasts who have so graciously donated their time and vehicles to make this event possible,” she said. “This experience has not only broadened the horizons of these students but has also given them a new perspective on what they can achieve despite their disabilities.”
A Community United
The event also saw the participation of several car enthusiasts and sponsors, including Cary and Ed Ruggiero, Frank Voytek, JP Morgan, Juan Fernandez-Barquin, Pete Fernandez, and many more. The City of Miami Police Department also supported the event, ensuring the safety of the participants and contributing to the excitement of the day.
The Impact of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind
For over 90 years, Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired has been a beacon of hope for thousands of individuals. The organization offers a wide range of programs and services that empower visually impaired individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives. This event, which allowed students to engage with high-performance vehicles, is just one example of how the organization goes above and beyond to provide meaningful experiences that challenge perceptions and encourage growth.
Looking Ahead
The success of the Cars for Charity event sets a promising precedent for future initiatives aimed at empowering visually impaired students. As Miami Lighthouse continues its mission, events like these will play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for these young individuals to explore their potential fully.
The Cars for Charity event was more than just a showcase of exotic cars; it was a celebration of resilience, community, and the limitless potential of the human spirit. It highlighted the importance of providing inclusive experiences and demonstrated how powerful community support can be in transforming lives. The students of Miami Lighthouse left the event with memories that will last a lifetime, inspired to dream bigger and reach higher, proving that with the right support, anything is possible.
Sponsors and donors
Covering the recent event hosted by Miami Lighthouse for the Blind was a truly uplifting experience, made possible by the extraordinary generosity of all the sponsors and donors involved.
Special thank you to Michael Weintraub, the Lead Philanthropic Sponsor, and The Collection, the Lead Automotive Sponsor, whose support was instrumental in bringing this unique event to life. In addition to Grove Bank & Trust, Cary and Ed Ruggiero, Baptist Health South Florida, Homestead Miami Speedway, and Florida Blue for their significant contributions. Additionally, appreciation goes out to Comcast, Walgreens, Perry Ellis International, Miami Herald, Miami Kids Magazine, and Royal Caribbean Cruises, who have all played vital roles in ensuring the success of this initiative.
Thanks to these incredible supporters, visually impaired students were able to experience the thrill of high-performance vehicles in a way that transcended sight, proving once again that community collaboration can achieve extraordinary outcomes. Your dedication to making a difference has left a lasting impact on these students, reminding them and all of us that there are no limits to what we can accomplish together.
