Naples, FL – July 14, 2026
Lighthouse of Collier (LOC) is proud to shine a light on Arthur (Art) Bookbinder’s legacy and generosity. LOC was recently honored to receive a generous gift of $427,373.90 through his estate. This meaningful gift truly reflects his lifelong commitment of empowering individuals who are blind and visually impaired.
Art and his wife Sue played an instrumental role in establishing LOC nearly 20 years ago. He understood the many challenges of having vision loss after being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa in his 30s. Art’s diagnosis was a turning point that transformed his personal experiences into a mission driven purpose.
He later became a nationally recognized leader in the low vision technology industry. His professional expertise, combined with his unwavering passion for independence and accessibility, helped to shape Lighthouse of Collier into what it is today.
Art’s “word” was generosity. Lighthouse CEO Robin Goldstone Garcia says, “We are so grateful for Art Bookbinder’s lasting generosity. He was not only a dedicated supporter of Lighthouse of Collier but was also a true friend and mentor to our team. His belief in our work lives on through this gift, which will help ensure that individuals in Collier County who are blind and visually impaired receive the vital services and support they need.”
The LOC family is profoundly grateful to Art and Sue Bookbinder for the lasting impact they made on our organization and on the countless individuals whose lives they touched.
Art ultimately lost all his vision, but his character and kindness towards others never wavered. He won several awards including the Against All Odds, Overcoming Obstacles Award from Collier County Commissioners in 2018. LOC is a living testament to Art’s dedication to our mission. His legacy is reflected in every child attending summer camp, every adult mastering assistive technology, and every senior regaining confidence in daily living.
Although Art passed away in 2020 and Sue earlier this year, their commitment to Lighthouse of Collier continues through this extraordinary gift and the lives it will impact for years to come. The Board of Directors will thoughtfully determine how these funds can best advance our mission and serve future generations of individuals who are blind and visually impaired.
Those inspired by Art and Sue’s lifelong commitment to Lighthouse of Collier may make a gift to the Arthur Bookbinder Fund or directly to Lighthouse of Collier to help continue the work they cared so deeply about.
