STARability Foundation is pleased to announce the 7th Annual STAR Gala, Illuminating Abilities: A Day of Giving, presented by STOCK Development and co-chaired by local philanthropists Kelly Assaad and Christa Mangiello. The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. The event begins at 3 p.m. and features a cocktail party, live auction and dancing. Attire for the affair will be Neapolitan chic.

Following another sold-out event in 2024 that raised over $2.7 million, STARability’s largest benefit event of the year returns to help the nonprofit organization preserve and expand innovative programs that shine light on ability. Proceeds will support life-changing experiences and opportunities for hundreds of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Collier County.

Kelly Assaad, originally from Alabama, has been a dedicated resident of Naples for 23 years. Kelly is a passionate advocate for children through her involvement with various non-profits, including Boys and Girls Club programs and the Pan-Florida Challenge. As a full-time homemaker and devoted mother of 15-year-old twins, she prioritizes her family while actively engaging in community service. Kelly studied Business at the University of South Alabama and previously worked in administration and marketing for Ruby Tuesday. Together with her husband Mike, she co-owns Waterside Builders, where they strive to make a positive impact in their community.

“I care deeply for STARability Foundation and the selfless work they are doing,” said Kelly. “It’s my belief that the need to raise awareness and offer more services to assist individuals with disabilities locally is long overdue. I am excited to join Christa to chair this year’s STAR Gala and invite the community to join us to support this extremely worthy cause.”

Originally from New Jersey, Christa Mangiello and her husband, Kevin Bush, relocated to Naples in 2016. After a successful career as a corporate executive, Christa transitioned her focus to community advocacy. She is now retired from the financial services industry, where she served as Vice President at Van Kampen Investments and Wealth Advisor at Wells Fargo and Raymond James. An avid supporter of STARability, Christa embraces philanthropy with the same passion as her business endeavors, using a methodical approach to maximize contributions to various charities and causes. She also serves on numerous boards of the charities she supports. Outside of her professional and philanthropic pursuits, Christa is a devoted mother to two children.

“For several years, I have been incredibly moved while attending the STAR Gala and have devoted my time to helping raise awareness and supporting the mission of the STARability Foundation,” said Christa.  

Individual tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information about STARability’s 2025 STAR Gala, visit STARability.org/gala.

For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. Their compassionate team supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities. To learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.