NAPLES, Fla. (Jan. 24, 2025) – STARability Foundation, a leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will host their 7th Annual STAR Gala: Illuminating Abilities, on Saturday, Feb. 1 at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.

        Following a sold-out event in 2024 that raised over $2.7 million to support STARability, this year’s Neapolitan chic celebration will feature cocktails, dancing and an expansive silent and live auction featuring exclusive, one-of-a-kind items.

            Top live auction items include incredible getaway packages to breathtaking destinations such as Harbour Island in the Bahamas and Tanzania in Africa, offering luxury accommodations and spectacular itineraries. For those who prefer to stay close to home, a five-star experience awaits with an intimate dinner hosted by Jeff and Valerie Boyd Gargiulo in their private residence in Naples featuring Napa Valley’s Garguilo wine and the rare and seasonal Alba Truffle, also known as “White Gold.” Sports enthusiasts will also have the chance to bid on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, including an owner’s experience with exclusive Club-level access at five exciting sporting events – including the Cleveland Guardians, New York Yankees, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils and Real Salt Lake. Additional lots include a travel package to Boston with accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, dinner at the renowned Legal Sea Foods and a VIP Red Sox experience inclusive of a private tour of Fenway Park with batting practice and seats behind home plate for four guests. Golf enthusiasts will also get the chance to play with PGA Pros Keith Mitchell and Greyson Sigg at the stunning Sea Island Resort in Georgia.

            In addition to the live auction, a variety of over 50 sensational silent auction items are being offered in dining, shopping, travel and experiences, beauty and wellness, fashion and clothing, sports and more. From a trip to Barnsley Resort in charming and tranquil Adairsville, Ga., exquisite multi-course tasting with wine pairing for six at Sea Salt or private sunset boat tour, to a fabulous staycation at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón or a Miami Dolphins package, there is truly something for everyone.

            Bidding for the online silent auction will open to gala attendees as well as the general public on Tuesday, Jan. 28 and continue until 12 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 2. Preview auction items and register at STARgala.givesmart.com.

Presented by STOCK Development, this year’s STAR Gala aims to illuminate abilities. Proceeds from the inspiring event will support the STARability’s innovative, community-based and life-changing programs, experiences and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn skills, find employment and make social connections.

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.