Passport to Possibilities: A Celebration of Community and Impact On November 8, Vista Autism Services hosted its annual Passport to Possibilities fundraising event — an evening that celebrated community, culture, and the shared belief that every individual deserves a path forward filled with hope and opportunity. Thanks to the generosity of families, staff, and supporters, the event raised more than $104,000 to strengthen Vista’s programs and services across all divisions. These funds help fill critical gaps in resources — from classroom materials and adaptive technology to community experiences for adults — ensuring that every individual we serve continues to have access to high-quality, personalized support. The theme, Passport to Possibilities, reflected the journeys that happen every day at Vista — journeys of learning, growth, and discovery for individuals with autism and the teams who support them. While the evening’s décor and performances carried a global travel motif, the true meaning of the theme was about opening doors to new experiences and celebrating how far each person can go when given the opportunity. Guests were welcomed by the stirring sound of the Highland bagpipe, performed by Todd Jones, an accomplished piper who was diagnosed with autism at age two. A member of the Hawk Mountain Highlanders, Todd has performed throughout Central Pennsylvania for causes ranging from veterans’ groups to the Special Olympics. His performance — made possible through a connection by Vista’s Jody Muldowney — was a powerful reminder of what can happen when potential is nurtured and celebrated. Mike Jarman presents the 2025 Vista Impact Award to Richard S. Kocher. Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of Vista’s Impact Award to Richard S. Kocher, recently retired Vista Board member. With nearly 40 years of experience in health care and behavioral health, Kocher has played an instrumental role in guiding Vista’s compliance initiatives and strengthening its negotiating position with payors. His calm leadership and steadfast commitment to Vista’s mission have left a lasting mark on the organization and the communities it serves. The evening also featured a moving story shared by a Vista School family, whose son, now in his final year at The Vista School, has grown and flourished through the dedication of Vista’s teachers and staff. The parents expressed deep gratitude for the support their family has received over the past 14 years — describing Vista as a place where their son has been able to blossom, learn, and experience joy in ways they once only hoped for. Their story was a touching testament to the impact of compassion, expertise, and perseverance — and to the countless lives transformed through Vista’s work every day. Throughout the night, guests enjoyed vibrant performances from the McGinley School of Irish Dance, Rasika School of Dance, Sunshine Chinese Dance Club, and Rhythm Lounge Dance Club — each reflecting the event’s global theme and Vista’s belief that inclusion, creativity, and community make us stronger together. Vista extends its deepest gratitude to The Rothrock Foundation, the evening’s Platinum Sponsor, for their long-standing partnership and commitment to strengthening communities. Because of the generosity and collaboration of so many, Passport to Possibilities became more than a fundraising event — it became a celebration of inclusion, compassion, and the belief that unique potential is always within reach. View more photos from the event on our Facebook page.