Fostering Success, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational and enrichment opportunities to help foster children thrive, welcomed supporters, community leaders and advocates to its signature annual gala, “A Night to Flamingle,” in March at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. More than 325 guests gathered for the vibrant evening of celebration and purpose, raising a record-breaking $850,000 to support life-changing programs for foster children throughout Southwest Florida.

Longtime supporters Jim and Faye Derham served as honorary co-chairs for the gala. Amanda Hall, WINK News anchor, served as the event’s emcee alongside auctioneer Rick Gallo. Live entertainment for the evening was provided by Foreman’s 5.

Special group and solo performances from Dance Arts by Maria highlighted the impact of enrichment programs, with many of its young dance performers connected to the foster care community, showcasing how creative opportunities help children build confidence and discover their talents.

The evening also featured an exciting live auction with unforgettable travel and culinary experiences, as well as an exclusive, meaningful art piece created by children served by Fostering Success, symbolizing hope and the transformative power of community support.

During the program, Ann Hughes, CEO of Fostering Success, shared stories of young people whose lives have been transformed through the organization’s programs.

“Foster children are not defined by the crisis that brought them into care; they are defined by their potential,” Hughes said. “Because of the generosity in this room and the support of our community, we are able to provide the education, opportunities and encouragement these children need to thrive.”

Hughes highlighted the organization’s work helping more than 750 young children each year through kindergarten preparation, supporting students with tutoring and academic mentoring, providing scholarships for higher education and ensuring children have essential items such as beds, clothing and the supplies needed to succeed in school and in life.

Guests also heard inspiring updates about young people supported by Fostering Success, including students who have graduated college, entered professional careers and are continuing their educational journeys. Guest speakers and grandparents, Rose and Vaughn Young, shared their family’s story and experience with Fostering Success, as well as powerful reminders of how community support can change the trajectory of a child’s life.

Fostering Success’ “A Night to Flamingle” gala was supported by a variety of generous sponsors and underwriters. Sponsors included three anonymous donors, Doug and Nancy Campbell, Elaine and Jay Moorin, Carol and Lou Volpe, Children’s Network of Southwest Florida, Janet and Blake Gable, Andy and Kathy Moock, Barron Collier Companies, Bon Vivant Journeys, Presstige Printing, Stifel, The Players Club & Spa, Waterside Shops, Woodruff Institute, Life in Naples and Naples Illustrated. Underwriters included Kathy VanOort, Home-Tech, Dance Arts by Maria, First Foundation Bank, Nancy Maddox, DeVoe Automotive Group, Foreman Productions, Trish Kaufman and Craig Harrington.

About Fostering Success

Fostering Success provides educational and enrichment opportunities that enable foster children to fulfill their potential. The organization’s life-transforming programs are designed to ensure some of the most vulnerable children in the community receive the essential supplies and comprehensive support they need, without interrupting their educational, social and emotional development, and have the opportunity to lead meaningful and productive lives. Programs include kindergarten preparation, tutoring provided by academic mentors, emergency supply kits, project enrichment activities, scholarships, as well as classes and assistance for those transitioning out of foster care. For additional information, visit fosteringsuccess.net or call 239-262-1808.