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STARability Foundation to host 8th Annual STAR Gala on Feb. 7, 2026

STARability Foundation to host 8th Annual STAR Gala on Feb. 7, 2026

STARability Foundation is pleased to announce the 8th Annual STAR Gala, co-chaired by local philanthropists and sisters Jenny Haire, Barbie Kellam and Morgan Rodgers, on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. Themed “Where Abilities Shine: Generosity Blooms,” this extraordinary event will feature a cocktail garden party, silent and live auctions, and dancing.


Following another sold-out event in 2025 that raised over $3.2 million, STARability’s largest benefit event of the year returns to support and expand the organization’s innovative programs that shine a light on ability. The co-chair trio of sisters and Naples residents are longtime supporters and advocates for STARability, who share a deep commitment to raising awareness and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.


Haire currently serves as the managing director of Stofft Cooney Architects, overseeing operations in both the Naples and Sarasota offices. She brings more than a decade of experience in community leadership, fundraising and advocacy. A past STAR Gala event chair, she has also served as sponsorship chair for the last three years. Haire is vice president of the Naples Design District and is actively involved in raising two sons with her husband, Tate Haire. A three-time women’s World Series champion in softball, she enjoys coaching local youth sports programs and creating opportunities for connection through teamwork.


“I’m incredibly honored to co-chair alongside my two sisters, Barbie and Morgan. Family has always been our core value and standing together for a cause we deeply believe in feels both natural and powerful. Though none of us have firsthand experience raising a child with a disability, we are deeply aware of the urgent need for support and services for this underserved community,” said Haire. “Florida currently ranks 49th in the nation for funding these essential services – a heartbreaking statistic that motivates us even more. That’s why we’re committed to giving our time, talents and hearts to this extraordinary foundation. As proud Neapolitans, we want to lead by example and show what’s possible when a community comes together with compassion, purpose and unity.”


Kellam is a passionate advocate for children and has been involved with STARability for more than seven years. She has served on the Gala committee for several years, including as co-chair of the Silent Auction committee. As partner and director of marketing and sales at Connor+Gaskins, she strives to make a positive impact in the community, both personally and professionally. Outside of her professional and philanthropic pursuits, Kellam is a devoted mother to two children.


“It has been amazing watching the growth of STARability over the years, from the staff, the facilities and the participants, and I am excited to continue supporting them in this meaningful way. Seeing the participants attend these social events and have so much fun together is a heartwarming experience,” said Kellam.


As owner and operator of Royal Estate Management since 2013, Rodgers and her husband have grown the business from a side job to a full-time venture, while also raising a young family. A founding member of the inaugural STAR Gala committee, she has remained actively engaged with the foundation for the past eight years. Rodgers has proudly witnessed STARability’s transformation and growth, seeing firsthand how the organization helps hundreds of participants find purpose, community and meaningful employment.


“Co-chairing this event is so special to me; it gives my sisters-in-law and I the opportunity to work together while putting together a beautiful and meaningful event,” said Rodgers. “We hope to continue to raise the bar and deliver one of Naples’ best galas of the giving season. I cannot wait to see this gala ‘bloom’ and see the fruits of our labor when the night is over, and the giving has been topped!”

 

For more information about STARability’s annual 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.

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