An inspiring and entertaining evening of live music, community and philanthropy high-lighted the 6th Annual Heroes, themed Denim & Diamonds: Sparkle for a Cause, presented by American Heritage Schools and benefiting Lighthouse of Broward.
The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception and silent auction. Guests then moved into the Black Box Theater for an electrifying performance by powerhouse vocalist Clay Cartlan. Joining him on stage were talented musicians and soloists, who are the fine arts students from American Heritage Schools. Together they had the audience singing and swaying along to popular country, rock and pop songs. It was all to benefit Lighthouse of Broward programs and services that are vital to the blind and visually impaired in the community.
“We are so grateful to all of the heroes who made this night so successful – American Heritage Schools, the students, teachers, parents, Clay, our volunteers, everyone who attended and of course our generous sponsors,” said Ellyn Drotzer, president and CEO of Lighthouse of Broward. “Their support for our programs and services that are so vital to the visually impaired and blind in our community is immeasurable.”
Proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales and the silent and live auctions benefited Lighthouse of Broward, the only private, non-profit organization in Broward County providing comprehensive educational, rehabilitation and counseling services to visually impaired and blind children and adults.
In addition to American Heritage Schools, additional sponsors included Centennial Bank; Moss Foundation; South State Bank; McCullough & Leboff, PA; Miller Construction Company; All Atlantic Benefits; and Danto Builders.
Founded in 1973 Lighthouse of Broward is the preeminent resource for the visually impaired in Broward County, providing specialized rehabilitation, life skills training and employment opportunities to enhance the independence, productivity and dignity of children and adults who are blind or visually impaired and is the only private, non-profit 501(c) (3) in Broward County providing comprehensive educational and rehabilitation services and counseling to blind and visually impaired children and adults. The Lighthouse is accredited by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired, is a United Way partner agency and a member of the Florida Association of Agencies Serving the Blind and the non-profit Executive Alliance of Broward. Lighthouse of Broward has consistently held a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid (formerly Guide-Star) since 2018. These are independent charity evaluators that assess nonprofit account-ability, transparency and performance. Programs include Bright Beginnings, David & Jean Colker KIDS, TeenLife, Ready to work, Vital Living and the NSU Low Vision Clinic.