Joan O’Connell and Toni O’Brien, Co-Chairs of the 9th Annual Grandma’s Angels Holiday Luncheon are thrilled to announce Heidi Schaeffer MD as the Honorary Chair. Dr. Schaeffer has graciously been a Presenting Sponsor of the luncheon since before 2021 and serves as one again this year. There is no one more deserving of this honor and recognition!
Dr. Schaeffer is a nationally recognized human trafficking awareness and intervention expert and is passionate about supporting causes that serve abused, neglected and abandoned youth. She earned her Bachelor Degrees in Biology and Psychology at Barry University (Miami, FL, 1994) and was Valedictorian of both majors. In 1998, she graduated with her Doctorate of Medicine Degree from the University Of Miami School Of Medicine. Dr. Schaeffer trained in Internal Medicine at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. Licensed to practice medicine in Florida since 1999, Dr. Schaeffer has worked with private and public healthcare organizations (including the Department of Health). She is President-Emeritus of the Human Trafficking Coalition of the Palm Beaches and serves as an Executive Board member of ChildNet and the FLITE Center. She was awarded the State of Florida’s Human Trafficking Advocate of the Year by the Attorney General in 2017.
The luncheon starts at 11:30 am with a wine reception and a fabulous silent auction. During lunch there will be a small live auction while local CBS12 News Anchor Liz Quirantes has once again graciously agreed to serve as the celebrity emcee.
The auction proceeds benefit Grandma’s Place, which provides shelter and loving care to children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect and also provides respite care for young children with disabilities while offering support to their parents/caregivers to maximize each child’s safety and success.
KEN’S KREW, A NONPROFIT DEDICATED TO ENSURING THAT INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM AND OTHER NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO ENTER THE WORKFORCE, EARN A FAIR WAGE, AND REACH THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL!
Palm Beach County, FL – Ken’s Krew, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disabilities find meaningful employment, continues to transform lives through career coaching, job placement, and ongoing support. The organization’s mission is to ensure that individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities can enter the workforce, earn a fair wage, and maximize their potential.
A remarkable example of Ken’s Krew’s impact is the story of Alejandro Hernandez (pictured above), a 24-year-old from Westlake, FL. Diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, Alejandro was non-verbal until the age of 7. This journey has been marked by many challenges, both emotionally and financially, for him and his family. Despite these obstacles, Alejandro has grown into an amazing young man who is nearly independent and currently employed at Home Depot.
“We are incredibly proud of Alejandro and others like him, who show immense strength and perseverance,” said Ilana Solomon, Palm Beach County Vocational Coordinator of Ken’s Krew. “Our mission is to provide the necessary resources and support to help individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities succeed in their careers and lives.”
Denise Negron and Felix Hernandez, parents of Alejandro, are spearheading a new fundraising effort to support Ken’s Krew’s expansion. “We are deeply grateful for the support received from Ken’s Krew and Home Depot,” said Negron and Hernandez. “This is a critical opportunity to provide hope and resources to a community with limited options. By joining forces, we aim to raise the necessary funds to help Ken’s Krew expand its services and reach more individuals in need.”
The fundraising campaign invites community members to join our Florida Team and to contribute to this vital cause by visiting https://givebutter.com/GreatStateChallenge/florida-fundraisers/denisenegronhernandez. Every donation helps Ken’s Krew continue its mission and support individuals like Alejandro in achieving their career goals.
About Ken’s Krew Ken’s Krew was founded in 1997 by a group of parents concerned about the employment challenges their children with neurodevelopmental disabilities would face. Their search for solutions led them to Home Depot Co-Founder Ken Langone, who offered job opportunities at Home Depot in Philadelphia, inspiring the launch of the pilot program, “Ken’s Kids,” which provided assessment, training, and support to ensure job placement success. With financial backing from Langone and other donors, full-time vocational coordinators were hired to guide participants through their employment journey. Over the past 26 years, Ken’s Krew has helped more than 900 individuals transition from students to productive employees, supported by their families, coaches, and workplace teams. Today, the program operates in 10 states and over 186 Home Depot stores, with continued expansion through new employment partners. For more information, please visit www.kenskrew.org or call us at (212) 290-8999.
I was crushed. My son was honest and I had to respect him. “Mom, I just want to work through this by myself.” This was his response to telling me he wanted to go to a friend’s funeral by himself.
What an odd feeling. My kids have always wanted me there, even if it was to be “quiet support”. But now… he was telling me that he didn’t want me there. I was dumbfounded. I never expected this but then again, we never expected his friend to pass.
The news came in dribs and drabs. A news report, a friend guessing, and then confirmation. It still breaks my heart. How could this happen? How could someone so young and full of life not be here anymore? My heart breaks for the family. We’ve known them since elementary school and I am in disbelief. And if I’m having a hard time with it, my son must be too right?
Mom’s worry. Are we handling this right? Am I paying enough attention to him, to this situation… am I worrying too much? Sigh. But there comes a time when our kids are old enough to ask for/ tell us what they want. Isn’t that what we encourage their whole lives? And now, I’m staring down the truth barrel, feeling like I’ve been left with a large emotional gaping hole left in my midsection but I’m glad. My son felt comfortable telling me what he wanted and (to my dismay) what he didn’t want. He didn’t want me at the funeral.
I didn’t say much. Instead, I slinked away to my bedroom to lick my wounds and work this out in a mature way. And it got me thinking about how hard it is to be there for everything but even harder to not be there. The kids get older. His not needing me there and wanting to work out his feelings with his friends is a very mature thing to do. It’s a testament that we, as parents, did something right. The future holds lots of opportunities when I won’t be there. I have to get used to it but boy, is it hard.
My thoughts and prayers go out to my son’s friend and his family. Please know that we (my son included) think of him often and will always remember him.
An Interview with Nancie Success, Owner of Kings Wellness Ranch
By Denise Marsh
The Equine Connection
We all have an outlet; a cathartic way to heal ourselves from trauma, stress, and the struggles of daily living. Some of us rely on music, dance, writing, exercise; whatever works for us, and helps us thrive and seek comfort in a stressful situation. It wasn’t until recently that I heard of Equine Therapy when some friends were talking about it. Living close to Wellington, otherwise called, “horse country”, I have had some knowledge of horses, training, and polo, but this was something new for me. I had even done an interview with Voltaire Saddles when I first started writing this column. Fortunately, I was given another opportunity to return to the horses this summer when I met Nancie Success at an anniversary party for The Brooklyn Café Show. The coincidence of her last name being “success” was surely a great sign. Let’s get into the interview with Nancie Success of Kings Wellness Ranch and find out how healing horses have been in her life.
Kings Wellness Ranch
A.W. How did you get involved with the equine community? Did you always have a passion for horses?
N.S: My involvement with the equine community started in my childhood where I developed a deep connection with horses and a passion for riding. Growing up surrounded by these majestic animals, they became an integral part of my life. After experiencing a traumatic brain injury, I found solace and healing in returning to my roots with horses. This renewed passion led me to establish Kings Wellness Ranch, where I combine my love for horses and my commitment to helping others heal and grow.
A.W.: Tell us a little about Kings Wellness Ranch. Where is it located? What activities do you offer? Is it appointment only?
N.S: Kings Wellness Ranch is a unique sanctuary dedicated to providing holistic healing and support through the bond between horses and humans. Our mission is to create a nurturing environment where both horses and humans can experience growth, comfort, and renewal.
We are located in Lake Worth, Florida. Currently we are in the process of finding our “forever home” for the ranch, and we have an outgoing fundraiser to support this important effort. We offer a range of activities, including riding lessons, educational programs, and therapeutic sessions. Our services are designed to support both horses and individuals through holistic and hand-on experience.
Regarding access, we are open by appointment only. This allows us to provide personalized attention and ensure that each participant receives the best possible experience.
A.W.: What are some of the highlights of your “business”? Please share a story or two.
N.S: On Mother’s Day, we hosted our first community outreach event for mothers who have experienced loss and are struggling around Mother’s Day. They were able to seek comfort and support through the healing presence of our horses. The mothers interacted gently with the horses, finding a solace and renewal during a difficult time, Seeing the relief and gratitude on their faces as they released their emotional letters in the bon fire was a powerful reminder of the importance of our work.
A.W.: Let’s discuss student joy.
N.S.: Another highlight is witnessing the joy and transformation in our students as they work with the horses. One young participant, a teenager struggling with anxiety, initially felt apprehensive about interacting with the horses. Over time, through consistent lessons and encouragement, the student developed a strong bond with a particular horse. The breakthrough came during a riding lesson when the student confidently guided the horse through a course. The sheer happiness and pride on the student’s face was incredibly moving. It was a moment of triumph, not just for the student, but for everyone involved in supporting the whole journey.
There are so many stories. These stories are just a few examples of the profound impact that our work at Kings Wellness Ranch has on individuals and families. They highlight the joy, healing, and connection that define our mission.
A.W.: Have you faced any obstacles or challenges along the way?
N.S: We face many challenges at KWR, such as funding and resources, learning to balance individual needs, staffing and volunteer management and dealing with weather and environmental conditions that are out of our control. However, the hardest challenge we faced was losing our beloved mare, Mosa. Her loss has been one of the most difficult challenges I’ve encountered in my life and at the ranch. Mosa was a special part of the ranch, and my life, and overcoming that loss is something I’m not sure I’ll every fully do. It’s an ongoing struggle, but no matter what obstacles arise, I know I have to keep pushing forward for the ranch, the horses, and the community we serve.
A.W.: There are quite a few horse sanctuaries in Wellington and neighboring areas. What makes Kings Wellness stand out?
N.S: Kings Wellness Ranch is more than just a healing center. I believe we’re more of a haven for personal growth. We focus on personalized healing, where each individual unique journey is at the core of the process. We have a 10-week program designed to address each person’s specific emotional, mental, and physical needs. Our holistic approach incorporates a range of wellness practices to deliver a comprehensive treatment that considers the whole person, not just the symptoms. From mindfulness and mediation to nutritional support and physical therapies. Kings Wellness Ranch offers a balanced mix of modern and ancient healing techniques that nurture both the body and the spirit, cultivating a deeper connection between the individual and the horse. We stress the importance of creating a harmonious environment where clients and the horse can feel supported, grounded, and empowered on their healing journey.
By combining individualized care with holistic practices, KWR provides an exceptional experience that promotes not only recovery, but also long-lasting wellness and vitality.
A.W.: Is the ranch open for children and adults? Is there a fee to come by or is it by donation only?
N.S: Yes, the ranch is open to both children and adults. There is a 10-week service program, which includes one lesson for ages 2 and up. The ranch serves veterans, individuals with Autism, neurodivergent individuals, anyone in need and horse lovers. We welcome donations. Please call us at the Ranch for prices.
A.W.: Are there opportunities for teenagers to do Community service for school or volunteer on their own time?
N.S: KWR provides opportunities for teenagers to complete community service hours for school or to volunteer in their free time. We encourage their participation in various activities, such as helping with horse care, maintaining the facilities, and supporting wellness programs. Volunteering at the ranch allows teens to gain valuable experience, connect with nature, and make a meaningful contribution in a supportive and nurturing environment.
A.W.: What are some of your favorite provisions from KWR?
N.S: I have a Watsu therapist and a path professional who work with clients. Watsu is a form of water shiatsu, with the therapist, Alyssa, as part of our Ranch’s wellness program. Chris is our experienced Path professional who works with both our clients that the horses.
A.W.: What are your future plans for Kings Wellness Ranch?
N.S: Over the next five years, Kings Wellness Ranch will establish itself as a premiere destination for holistic healing and personal transformation. We will expand our services to include a broader range of therapeutic programs, integrating cutting-edge wellness practices with traditional healing methods. Our focus will be on creating a nurturing environment that fosters growth, balance, and connection for individuals, families, and groups.
A Success Story
Nancie Success has indeed been a “success” with Kings Wellness Ranch; she gives true meaning to the words “healing” and “self-care”. I also believe that she has given me a newfound love and appreciation for horses. I can definitely see a visit to the ranch in the near future to witness firsthand its healing properties. Hopefully, you will get the opportunity to come visit her ranch as well and find your own catharsis in the process.
When it comes to working out, shoes are often seen as an essential piece of equipment. We spend a considerable amount of time finding the shoe that fits our feet best when we may not even need that additional support. A growing number of fitness enthusiasts and wellness advocates are discovering the benefits of getting rid of sneakers and hitting the gym floor completely barefooted.
Why Go Barefoot?
Working out barefoot can enhance your stability by allowing your feet to interact directly with the ground. Without the cushioning and support of shoes, your feet have to work harder to maintain balance, which can strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles. These smaller muscles are equally as important as a quad or a bicep, especially since they are the foundation of our bodies. For exercised that require a strong foundation such as squats and lunges, training barefoot can really aid in a stronger foundation that can support more weight.
Barefoot workouts can also improve your mobility. Being shoeless allows your feet and toes to move more freely, promoting a greater range of motion. This can lead to better form and execution in various exercises, enhancing overall performance and reducing the risk of injury. Many shoes today are build with additional cushioning for comfort or try their best to pad where we experience the most weight concentration when we walk however, this padding throws off how we carry and shift our weight. So when we wear these same shoes in weight training, our center of gravity and our balance is changed because of it. It’s why Olympians ware special flat-footed shoes or people lift in Vans and Converse!
One of the more abstract benefits of barefoot workouts is the increased sensory awareness. When you work out without shoes, your feet become more attuned to the surface beneath them. This heightened sense of touch can improve your proprioception—the body’s ability to perceive its position and movement in space—which is crucial for coordination and balance. Many lifts, even the basics like lunges, require an increased level of balance that with the incorrect shoes on can be very difficult.
While barefoot workouts offer numerous benefits, it’s important to know when they are appropriate. High-impact activities like running long distances or engaging in HIIT workouts require supportive footwear to protect your feet from strain and injury. For these exercises, sticking to a good pair of shoes is recommended.
Incorporating barefoot workouts into your routine can be a really great way to connect with your body on a deeper level, improve your performance, and enhance your overall wellness. If you’re curious about trying it out, start with low-impact exercises and gradually build up as you become more comfortable. Your body—and your feet—will thank you!
One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime and this year, an estimated 310,720 women will be diagnosed with the disease. That being the case, it’s a safe assumption that everyone knows someone who has been personally affected by breast cancer.
Andrew J. Shapiro, MD, FACS of Advanced Surgical Physicians is the Medical Director of the Advanced Breast Center at Wellington Regional Medical Center which hosts a free breast cancer support group. The supports group is open to anyone who has walked through a breast cancer diagnosis or supported a loved one on their journey, regardless of when or where they received care.
Hosted by Sheila Palacios, MSN-Ed, RN, OCN. Oncology Nurse Navigator, the group meets on the 4th Sunday of every month between 2:00pm-4:00pm in the Wellington Regional Medical Center Community Room.
Dr. Shapiro strongly advocates for regular mammograms every year starting at age 40 and regular breast self-exams.
“Home self-exams can help you maintain good breast health and be mindful of any changes so you can discuss them with your doctor,” Dr. Shapiro said.
Self-exams should be done on a monthly basis on a day that is easy to remember, like the first of the month. Keeping a record of your findings in a journal or on your phone is a good way to track changes.
“A self-exam only takes a few minutes and you can do it when you’re getting dressed for the day, lying in bed or taking a shower,” Dr. Shapiro said.
In order to perform a self-exam, stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your side and visually inspect for any changes like dimpling of skin, swelling or changes in shape or skin color. Then, put your hands on your hips to flex your chest muscles and observe the same.
Use your right hand to examine your left breast and vice-versa.
With the pads of your three middle fingers, start with applying light pressure, then medium pressure and finally firm pressure to check for any lumps, thick spots or changes. Use a circular motion when checking and be sure to check both the flesh nearest your armpit and your areola.
“Lumps in breast tissue are normal and shouldn’t be a reason to panic,” Dr. Shapiro said. “Some people have more dense breast tissue than others. Mammograms are the best detection tool but a home self-exam is a good way of recognizing what is normal for you.”
That being the case, you should consider making an appointment if you experience the following:
Inverted nipples or nipples that stop sticking out.
West Palm Beach, FL (September 27, 2024) 211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast will host the 8th Annual Lifeline Luncheon presented by Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at the Kravis Center, Cohen Pavilion in West Palm Beach. The organization’s signature event raises money and awareness of the life-saving mission of 211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast.
As Palm Beach County’s centralized access point for information, 211 Helpline sees the importance of being on the frontlines of issues affecting our community. This year’s Lifeline Luncheon will be an informative and inspirational event featuring performances by multi-Grammy nominated Peter Wolf and his wife, Lea Wolf-Millesi. Through music and storytelling, they will share their journeys of overcoming challenges and adversities. Mike Trim, from WPTV 5, will serve as the event emcee.
“The mental health landscape across America has been shaped by many factors since the pandemic and issues such as substance abuse and suicide are on the rise, said Sharon L’Herrou, President and CEO of 211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast. “We are all searching for positive ways to overcome challenges and adversity. Music is the one tool that has the power to bring people together and has the power to heal. We encourage all of those in our community to reserve tickets now for our star-studded Lifeline Luncheon that will focus on ‘These Dreams: Life Through Music.’”
The event Chair is Kathleen Hillman, and the Co-Chair is David Lyons. The Lifeline Luncheon begins at noon with 11:30 a.m. registration. Tickets are $175 each. To learn more about the event and sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, please visit, https://211palmbeach.org/lifeline-luncheon-2024, call (561) 383-1144, or email Candi.Spitz@211pbtc.org.
To date, sponsors include Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath (Presenting Sponsor), Jehle/Reidy Charitable Foundation (Salvation Sponsor), FPL and Morgan Stanley, The Harbor Financial Group at Morgan Stanley (Support Sponsors), Guardians Credit Union, Girard & Associates at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management (Linkage Sponsors), Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC and Kathleen Hillman (Helping Hand Sponsors), and iHeart Media and WPTV 5 (Media Sponsors).
About Peter Wolf and Lea Wolf-Millesi:
Peter Wolf is a multi-Grammy nominated, world-renowned composer, pianist, producer, songwriter, and arranger. Peter’s wife, Lea Wolf-Millesi, is a lyricist, actress, and fashion model. They have written songs and scores for many European motion pictures and documentaries.
After winning the European Jazz Festival at 16, Peter started his career as a keyboard player for Frank Zappa and “The Mothers Of Invention.” He has written and produced eight #1 songs and arranged and/or written for a wide range of musical talents including THE JEFFERSON STARSHIP (“We Built This City”, “Sara”) COMMODORES (“Nightshift”), WANG CHUNG (“Everybody Have Fun Tonight”, “Let’s Go”) EL DEBARGE, GO WEST (“King of Wishful Thinking” from “Pretty Woman,” “Faithful”) HEART (“These Dreams”, “What About Love”) PATTI LABELLE (“On My Own”) KENNY LOGGINS (“Playing with the boys” from “Top Gun”, “Avalon”) ESCAPE CLUB (“I’ll Be There”) PABLO CRUISE, GRACE SLICK, SANTANA, THE POINTER SISTERS, CHICAGO, CLIFF RICHARD, NATALIE COLE, THE SCORPIONS, N’SYNC, OLETA ADAMS.
Peter was also involved —not only musically but also on the production team—with a European-produced TV crime drama, “KOMMISSAR REX,” which featured a police dog as a main character.
Now production-savvy, Peter and Lea have been working on their new production company, “WHAMSLAM,” for the last two years, and they have created a brand-new television series with eight episodes entitled “SWEET TOXINS.”
About 211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast:
211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast envision a community where people in crisis receive the information and support they need to weather life’s storms. 211 Palm Beach and Treasure Coast’s mission is to save and improve lives through crisis intervention and connect people to health, mental health, and wellness services 24 hours a day.
The Capital Campaign for 211: Demand for 211’s services has increased significantly, causing it to outgrow its current headquarters space, which has reached the end of its useful life and is not hurricane-rated—211 plans to build a new 12,000-square-foot hurricane-rated building for a total cost of $6 million. If you would like more information on the Capital Campaign and how you can help, please get in touch with Candi Spitz at Candi.Spitz@211pbtc.org or (561) 809-4232.
West Palm Beach, FL – The YMCA of the Palm Beaches is launching several new programs this fall for children and families. These programs include “Family Adventure Saturdays,” a day camp for ‘No School’ Days, and an after-school tutoring program. Additionally, registrations for the annual Floating Pumpkin Patch are now open. More details on these programs can be found below: Family Adventure Saturdays o Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 Families will have the opportunity to participate in painting, pumpkin carving, Halloween face painting and outdoor games. Cost: $20 for members | $80 for community members o These costs cover families of up to four members for all four Saturdays in October!
For more information, please contact yleon@ymcapalmbeaches.org or 561-968-9622. Tutoring Program Tuesdays/Thursdays Tutoring will be available for 1st-6th graders. Services provided include tutoring, homework help and test prep. Cost: $40 for members | $80 for non-members To secure our child’s spot, please contact 561-968-9622. Make Your Own Healthy Protein Snacks Saturdays Oct. 19, Oct. 26, Nov. 2, and Nov. 9 Start committing to your health goals by learning to make your own healthy protein snacks at the Y! Our October classes will teach you everything you need to know about making your own protein bars and protein pancakes. Cost: $25 for members | $80 for non-members o Costs cover all four classes! For more information, please contact yleon@ymcapalmbeaches.org or 561-968-9622.
No School Days Oct. 3, 14, and Nov. 5 On non-school days, the YMCA will offer a dynamic Day Camp to keep kids active and engaged. It will include a variety of activities, including seimming lessons and other programs. For more information, please contact Khorinn Woodard at kwoodard@ymcapalmbeaches.org or 561-968-9622
Floating Pumpkin Patch Oct. 18, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Join us for a fun, festive and family-friendly seasonal event. Our pool will be filled with pumpkins so kids (ages 3-12) can splash, float and dunk them until they find the perfect one. Decorating and carving supplies will be available to customize your pumpkin to take home with you.
Ongoing Programs:
Group Swim Lessons Group swim lessons are offered for all age groups at the YMCA of the Palm Beaches. For more information, please contact 561-968-9622. o Parent/Child (6 Months – 3 Years) o Preschool (3-5 Years) o School Age (6-12 Years) o Teen/Adult (13+ Years)
Silver Sneakers Silver Sneakers is a fitness program designed specifically for older adults. The YMCA offers many SilverSneakers classes every week. o SilverSneakers – Classic o SilverSneakers – Circuit o SilverSneakers – Boom: Mind & Muscle The SilverSneakers program is included with 60+ Medicare plans For more information, please contact 561-968-9622. Fall Membership Special: $15/month gym access $39/Month Full access About the YMCA of the Palm Beaches: The YMCA of the Palm Beaches aims to provide everyone in the community with an opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, regardless of age, income or background.
Website: https://www.ymcapalmbeaches.org/ Phone: (561) 968-9622 Locations: Wellness Center: 4200 S. Congress Ave Lake Worth, FL, 33461 Aquatic Center: 2728 Lake Worth Road, Lake Worth, FL, 33461 Wellness Center: 3160 PGA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, 33410 Instagram: @ymcapalmbeaches Facebook: YMCA of the Palm Beaches
Celebrating 25 years of helping kids be kids during difficult times
Palm Beach Gardens, FLA. – (September 27, 2024) – Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, get ready to experience the greatest fundraiser on earth: the Little Smiles 19th Annual Stars Ball: Under the Big Top. This extraordinary circus-themed ball will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 5:30 PM at the Hilton in downtown West Palm Beach. Your support will brighten the lives of children in need.
This year’s Stars Ball is a one-of-a-kind event that blends the magic of the circus with Hollywood glamour. The night will come alive with dazzling entertainers, variety acts, and sideshows, all set against an awards-style celebration honoring twelve incredible children. All nominated by the facilities where they receive treatment: Abilena Cruz, Caedyn Fairbanks, Kylee Issac, Lyla Lackey, Carter McDuffy, Etta Oller, Yasly Perez, Mila Rauser, William Rivero, Daylyn Robinson, Andrew Roehm, and Majesty Williams will be celebrated as true Stars for their inspiring stories of perseverance and courage.
“Our Stars Ball is more than just a night of celebration,” said Brittany Perdigon, Executive Director of Little Smiles Florida. “It’s an opportunity for our community to unite and show these children that they are loved, supported, and celebrated. It reminds them that no matter what challenges they face, they are never alone.”
The evening will be filled with excitement and entertainment, starting with the red carpet experience for the Stars, complete with fans, paparazzi, and autograph signing. Guests will enjoy a program featuring live circus performances, interactive experiences, and a silent auction. All funds raised go directly to supporting Little Smiles’ year-round programming, which provides joy and comfort to children in need across South Florida.
This magical evening wouldn’t be possible without the leadership of co-chairs Virginia Sinicki and Samantha Shepherd and the generous support of our sponsors, including The Leandro P. Rizzuto Foundation, Frank & Herta Suess, Vertical Bridge, Waferworld, and Ocean Properties.
Individual tickets for this spectacular event are $350, and sponsorship opportunities are available for those who want to make an even bigger impact. By joining the greatest show on earth, you’re not just attending an event—you’re supporting the greatest charity, helping to bring smiles and comfort to thousands of local children who need it most.
For over 25 years, Little Smiles Florida has served children in difficult situations throughout South Florida. In 2023 alone, the organization brought smiles to over 55,000 local children, working closely with 34 pediatric facilities, including hospitals, shelters, medical daycare centers, foster homes, and local law enforcement. Little Smiles’ unique programming ranges from facility-wide events like movie and pizza nights to fulfilling individual requests such as gaming consoles and unforgettable experiences.
For more information about Little Smiles Florida and the Stars Ball or to purchase tickets, please visit littlesmilesfl.org.
About Little Smiles Florida:
Little Smiles is a not-for-profit organization operating in Palm Beach County and the greater Southeast Florida region. The charity was founded in 1999 by local businessman Paul L. Donohue, who saw a need and inspired the community to bring comfort and joy to children and their caregivers at Palm Beach Children’s Hospital. Little Smiles now partners with thirty-nine pediatric facilities from Daytona Beach to Miami that include hospitals, medical day care centers, hospices, shelters, foster care homes, and medical support facilities. Their mission is to help kids be kids during difficult times. They provide smiles to children and their support staff with fun events, including movie night, arts and crafts, and snack breaks. They fulfill individual needs and requests, such as providing a toy to help distract a child after surgery, pajamas to stay extra comfy during their time at the facility, or even a cake and a present to celebrate a birthday during their time at one of the facilities.
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Calendar Listing:
5:30 pm – 11:00 pm, Saturday October 5, 2024 – Little Smiles’ 19th Annual Stars Ball: Under the Big Top, a circus-themed evening of fun and philanthropy. The event takes place at the Hilton in downtown West Palm Beach. Individual tickets are $350, and various sponsorship opportunities are available. By participating in the Stars Ball, you play a starring role in helping Little Smiles continue its mission of helping kids be kids during difficult times. For more information, visit https://littlesmilesfl.org/starsball/.
Celebrate 10 Years of Impact: Empowering Women, Transforming Futures
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
WEST PALM BEACH, FL– (September 26, 2024) Impact the Palm Beaches is scheduled to host their ten-year anniversary kick-off celebration on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 5:30 pm at Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown. Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is once again the presenting sponsor.
Over 200 guests are expected to attend this spirited evening to kick off 10 Years of Impact: Empowering Women, Transforming Futures. Guests will enjoy cocktails and socializing as they learn more about Impact the Palm Beaches and what is planned for their ten-year anniversary season. Since its establishment in 2015, Impact the Palm Beaches has granted almost $2 million to local nonprofit organizations making transformational changes in our community.
“As we kick off our 10th year, Impact the Palm Beaches remains committed to partnering with local organizations to make a meaningful and long-lasting impact on the communities they serve,” shared Lisa Johnson, 2024-2025 co-president of Impact the Palm Beaches. Impact has set a goal of 500 members this year. “As our membership continues to grow, we are able to support an increasing number of organizations and initiatives, expanding our efforts to uplift communities.”
Johnson adds, “This year, FPL has once again taken on the role of presenting sponsor, and we are incredibly appreciative of their ongoing support. The partnership we have developed with FPL is built on our mutual dedication to improving our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work together towards this common goal.”
Last year, three local non-profits each received $100,000 in grants. Grant recipients included: The three $100,000 Impact Grant winners for 2024 were the American Association of Caregiving Youth (Caregiving Youth Project), Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies (Basics4Babies Emergency Pantry), and The Lord’s Place (Project Divert: A Homeless Shelter Diversion Pilot Initiative). Additionally, two $48,000 Merit Grants were awarded to Busch Wildlife Sanctuary (for the Rehabilitation Flight Cages for Large Birds) and Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County (for the Program Expansion in Central and Northern Palm Beach County). The 2025 Impact grants will be awarded at an Annual Awards Celebration on April 30, 2025.
Impact 100 is a worldwide organization with more than 60 chapters and steadily growing. Their motto is “One Woman, One Meeting, One Vote.” It is designed for women who wish to find an efficient and collaborative means of creating transformational change in their community. Women can become as involved as they want to in the process.
Impact members each contribute $1,000 annually and award at least one $100,000 Impact grant to a local nonprofit organization, allowing for a significant grant to one organization rather than several smaller gifts. Impact grants fund the following service areas: Arts & Culture; Education; Environment and Animal Welfare; Health & Wellness; and Family. Membership for the new season is now open and will close on February 29, 2024.
The Town of Palm Beach United Way is the fiscal agent of Impact the Palm Beaches.
