Good News - February 2021

One of the most memorable charitable events I attended was for the Cystic Fi- brosis Foundation. I was invited by a friendwho lost his young daughter to the disease. What made the event memorablewas hearing the stories directly fromyoung children about their incredibly difficult journey. The power and couragewithwhich they delivered themessage had a profound impact onme. I think in any charitable venture, the direct stories of those affected are always the most meaningful and memorable and have the greatest impact on supporters. Craig Huston, Huston Consulting Group, LLC The Hope Women's Center event at Signature Grand about two years ago was the most memorable charity event I've attended in a few years. The men who spoke at this meeting had an impact on me that I'll always remember. Cynthia J Arevalo, Esq., Law Offices of Cynthia J. Arevalo The most memorable Charity events I've been to are First Priority's. The last in- person onewas held atAddisonEvents inBocaRaton. The atmospherewas enchant- ing with a fairyland lighted outdoor reception area. The silent auction items were quite tempting and included generous offerings at mountaintop cabins. Speaking of tempting – the exotic hors d'oeuvres and dinner were exceptionally delicious. The best part is the director, Chris Lane. He has such an enthusiastic, personable way as he shares the amazingwork our Lord is accomplishing in our schools through First Priority. What a quality charity and experience. Deborah Cusick, FAU Campus Volunteer, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship PROMISE fund drive through dinner pickup, complete with pictures while in the car, in the pouring rain. Debra A. Schwinn, President, Professor of Health Sciences, Palm Beach Atlantic University The most memorable charity event I've attended in the last number of years was a fundraiser we did in Plant City, FL. I served on the Board for local Pregnancy Care Center and was part of administering the event.At the table wheremy wife and I were seated was a brilliant young lady who confided to us her experience as a client. Her beautiful daughter joined her later during the program, vibrant and cute as little girls can be. The daughter looked me in the eyes and said, “thank you, Mr., for working and helpingmymommake the best choice ... ME.” Needless to say, tears flowed from my wife and I on the way home. I later had the opportunity tominister to the family and share Christ with the father too. Dennis DeMarois, CEO/Executive Director, Gathering Palm Beach I have the privilege of assisting, promoting, or simply attending many fundraising events. What moves me the most about them is looking at faces or names that are there because of a common passion for the work of the Lord. I deeply feel we are all unified during thosemoments, and sharing in the same Holy Spirit's conviction to help others in whatever way God has provided to us...in Jesus' name. While each mission isworthy of support and all I've engaged do great things for others, I believe theministry done in the hearts of the supporters, staff, and volunteers is equally important for the spiritual growth of the kingdom. DoloresKingSt. George, President, KingCommunications, GraceNetMedia During the first 4KIDSGala that we attended a number of foster and adopted chil- dren came to the event with their foster and forever families. The kids took to the stage with a brief message written on old pieces of cardboard. So cool to learn where the kids came from, where they are now and the joyful expressions on their faces as a re- sult of God using the 4KIDS organization. Don Campion, President, Banyan Air Service, Inc. Mymost memorable charity event took place unexpectedly.We surprised a single mom with several of life's necessities without her asking for them or expecting them. Her joy and gratitudewas beyondwords. Charity events can be private, to one person, as well as public and reach many. Fidel Gomez, Pastor, Calvary Chapel Hollywood Several years backHopeSouthFloridahad their annual fundraiser inawarehouse. The food was brought in by catering trucks and everyone dressed casual. There was music and slide shows but no formal presentations. Everyone really enjoyed it! Dr.FredScarbrough, Founder,ScarbroughAnimalHospitalandHopeSouthFlorida The foodwas piled high in the parking lot of RiversideChurch inNorth Lauderdale as the cars lined up for the distribution. This joint effort between theCity of North Laud- erdale, Riverside, and other churches focused on feeding those in need during this dreadful pandemic. I had a vision of the way Jesus responded in compassion to the crowds and then said to the disciples, “You give them something to eat”(Mark 6:34- 44). All ate and were filled, and there were leftovers. Brought us to tears. Gene L. Green, PhD, Dean, Trinity International University – Florida We attended the Hope Women’s Center annual dinner a few years ago and it was amazing to see how God is using this ministry to help so many women, families and the unborn. George R. Moraitis, Jr., Moraitis, Cofar, Karney, Moraitis & Quailey One of themost memorable charity events I attendedwas the Fellowship of Chris- tianAthletes Tailgate Party that was held at BanyanAir in 2018. I had the opportunity to meet legendary college football Coach Bobby Bowden. It was fascinating to spend timewith himand listen to his heartfelt message about howhe coached players in col- lege through soul of prayer and made them men of God. It was truly an inspirational experience. And, FSU has never been the same since. Go CANES!! Gregg Wallick, President, Best Roofing, Inc. The most memorable charity fundraiser I attended was a Realtor event a few years ago.All the donations were disbursed to hundreds of local families in need. The event was not black tie or pomp and circumstance. It was a simple dinner gathering of people filling a need and helping others! That’s life!!! Helen Wayner P.A., Century 21 Hansen Realty What's the most memorable charity event you've attended in the last number of years? Of course, The Gridiron Grill-Off Food & Wine Festival! Thanks South Florida for 10 amazing years of football, food, fun and fundraising! Always Fired Up! John Offerdahl, Offerdahl’s Off-The-Grill Wants to Know… H. Collins Forman Craig Huston Cynthia J Arevalo Deborah Cusick Debra A. Schwinn Dennis DeMarois Dolores King St. George Don Campion Fidel Gomez Dr.FredScarbrough Gene L. Green George R. Moraitis