Formerly San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and Vision Impaired

Israel Bolivar’s life changed forever at the age of five. While playing hide and seek, he discovered his neighbor's homemade grenade. He pulled the pin not knowing what it was, and it exploded in his hands, causing him to lose his sight and both hands.

After months in a coma and undergoing numerous surgeries, Israel began his journey to recovery. Originally from Colombia, he moved to Florida in 1999, where he attended the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. Later, he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Florida International University.

Israel learned about Vibrant Works through a fellow employee who was also visually impaired. In 2019, after much consideration, he made the difficult decision to leave everything behind in Florida and relocate to San Antonio. He was drawn to Vibrant Works’ mission of empowering people with vision loss.

Israel’s determination and adaptability quickly shone through. He proved his capabilities and became a full-time sander in the Tinker Department, where he has excelled for the past five years. His team sands and finishes floorboards for the KC-135 aircraft.

“Israel’s performance is extremely phenomenal,” said his supervisor Tomas Trejo. “His quality of work is extraordinary, and I never have to ask him to rework anything he does.”

Known for his friendly and positive personality, Israel keeps his coworkers smiling.

“He has a huge heart and has become one of our vocal leaders in his department,” Tomas added.

What drives Israel is his sense of independence and the ability to provide for his family.

“Vibrant Works has given me the opportunity to prove that having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t be independent,” Israel shared. “People with disabilities can succeed just like anyone else.”

More than 300 guests joined us at the Witte Museum for our third annual Dining in the Dark, raising more than $145,000 to support our mission of empowering people with vision loss. 🌙

The evening was filled with excitement as guests participated in blindfolded wine and bourbon tastings, followed by a blindfolded gourmet three-course meal. The experience highlighted the resilience and capabilities of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Vibrant Works President and CEO Cindy Watson and NAEPB President Jeff Mittman welcomed attendees, while special guest Chef Robert Irvine helped make the evening even more memorable.

“This event is not just about raising funds—it is about raising awareness and transforming lives while celebrating resilience,” Watson shared. “I want to personally thank everyone for moving our mission forward.”

All proceeds from the event will provide essential low-vision support services across South-Central Texas. A huge thank you to our Title Sponsor, the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation, along with our incredible attendees, sponsors, staff, and volunteers who made it all possible.

Thank you for making Dining in the Dark a big success—we can’t wait for next year!

We’re excited to announce our next live audio described performance: Jersey Boys!

Enjoy the audio-described performance of this Tony-Award-winning sensation on Sunday, March 2 at 2 p.m. at the San Pedro Playhouse. Follow the incredible rise of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons as their story and music come to life in this unforgettable performance.

Tickets are $50 for regular admission, $35 for seniors, students, military personnel and first responders, and $20 for children under 12.

To access the audio description, stop by the table to the left in the lobby to pick up a receiver and over-the-ear hook earphone. This lets you hear the audio description while enjoying the full performance. A driver’s license or ID is required and will be returned when the equipment is brought back.

Don’t miss this exciting, accessible theater experience!