Thanks to our passionate supporters, we’re able to net over $575,000 to continue providing programs, supporting projects, and maintaining a safe, and loving home for our kids in foster care. It is truly amazing to see the difference our community can make in the lives of these children who endured so much neglect and struggle. Without our amazing Gala planning committee, our sponsors, guests, vendors, and volunteers, none of this could be possible. Thank you all for being a part of this beautiful event!
Guests were welcomed by breath-taking views at The Marriot Water Street in Downtown Tampa for this year’s Fostering Hope Black Tie Gala, Presented by Homes by West Bay! The theme was “An Evening in Monte Carlo”. It was a fabulous night filled with excitement and chances to try your luck, all to benefit our children in foster care. To get the party started, guests were greeted by a sparkling champagne wall, courtesy of Panera Bread. The festivities began with a Cocktail Hour, provided by Kearney Companies and signature drinks courtesy of Continuum Wealth Partners. While guests sipped and mingled, they were welcomed to take a gamble over at our fabulous casino tables sponsored by Bill and Jodi Williams or check out our impressive auction items thanks to Florida Executive Reality and Gina Miles. In addition to the casino games and silent auction, guests can enter our Wall of Wine game where everyone is a winner, and takes home a delicious bottle of wine, sponsored by Krista and Arthur Schultz.
Upon entering the ballroom, guests were wow’d by the luxurious Monte Carlo feel as well as the ice sculpture sponsored by Kevin and Heather Jannarone and the festivities were only beginning. Drinks were flowing all night courtesy of our bar sponsors Hillsborough Community College, KFC and the Mook family. Auctioneer Joe announced the winner of our Jewelry game sponsored by Haas Salon before continuing our program before the always anticipated live auction. During this time guests got to hear our on-campus Hillsborough County teacher, Ms. Candy, share her story about working at A Kid’s Place and the impact it’s had on our children here in foster care. Listening to her story was moving and inspiring for all that heard it. Once our program concluded, guests danced the night away to the sounds of “No Filter” sponsored by The Trey Curry Foundation, lit up some celebratory cigars courtesy of Jay Furst and made memories that’ll last a lifetime in our photo booth sponsored by Geico. As guests headed home from an evening of beautiful food, drinks, and fun they each collected an extra special gift from our Takeaway sponsors, Lazydays RV. Courtesy Valet sponsored by Sharp General Contractors helped assist guests to getting home with ease.
Check out the Gala Photo Album here.
