For many of us, getting in the car and heading out into the world is something we hardly think twice about. A quick trip to a park. An afternoon exploring a new place. A shared experience with friends.
For individuals with vision loss, those same moments can require planning, coordination, and often, reliance on others.
That’s why two new 15-passenger vans, funded through a grant from Universal Orlando Foundation, are already making such a meaningful difference for clients of Lighthouse Central Florida.
Wrapped in vibrant blue and gold and featuring the faces of Lighthouse clients, these vans are hard to miss. They’re bold, joyful, and full of personality — just like the individuals they support. But more than that, they represent something deeper: access, opportunity, and independence in motion.
With these vans, clients can more easily participate in the experiences that help build confidence and real-world skills, whether that’s navigating a new environment, engaging with their community, or simply trying something new.
From field trips to local parks and attractions to group outings and enrichment activities, transportation is no longer a barrier — it’s what makes these experiences possible in the first place. Each trip becomes more than just an outing. It’s a chance to practice orientation and mobility skills, strengthen social connections, and discover just how capable they truly are.
“Transportation is one of the most significant barriers our clients face,” said Jarrod Daab, Vice President of Fund Development at Lighthouse Central Florida. “These vans remove that barrier in a powerful way. They open the door for our clients to experience more, do more, and build confidence in environments that once felt out of reach.”
This investment from Universal Orlando Foundation reflects a partnership rooted in shared values: creating inclusive experiences, expanding access, and investing in people.
“Universal Orlando has been an incredible partner to Lighthouse, and this support is a perfect example of their commitment to our mission,” said Kaleb Stunkard, President and CEO of Lighthouse Central Florida. “These vans will directly impact the lives of our clients every single day, helping them gain independence, explore their communities, and realize their full potential.”
Because of this support, Lighthouse can take learning beyond our building and into the community — making it possible for clients to experience new environments, build confidence in real-world settings, and develop the skills that lead to greater independence.
