On Saturday, May 4, 2019, clients of the Lighthouse of SWFL experienced the exhilaration of boating provided by members of the Rotary Club of Cape Coral.

More than fifteen individuals living with blindness or vision impairment enjoyed a two hour boat ride on the open waters of the Caloosahatchee River and the Gulf of Mexico. The annual event, led by boat captains and volunteer members of Rotary, provides the clients and their sighted guides a sensory exploration experience and gives them the opportunity to get out into the community and practice the self-advocacy skills they have learned.

“I love being on the water!” said Mike Ulrich, who lost his vision over fifteen years ago. “I feel like it gives me part of my sighted world back, to experience activities that let me get back out on the water, talk with the boat captains, and get together with friends. The Rotarians do such a great job and these are some really nice boats!”

“The Lighthouse is so grateful to the Rotarians for giving our guests the opportunity to experience such great recreation, fellowship, and camaraderie,“ said Dotty St. Amand, CEO of Lighthouse of SWFL.

Rotary is an organization of business, professional and community leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. 

Lighthouse of SWFL is a United Way partner agency serving individuals with blindness and vision impairment in Lee, Glades, and Hendry counties. Lighthouse of SWFL, a nationally accredited agency, is funded by the Division of Blind Services, United Way, Lee County Government, and other private donors. For more information about Lighthouse of SWFL, visit www.lighthouseswfl.org or call (239) 997-7797.