16th Annual Wings of Hope Gala Benefits Central Florida Youth
Boys Town Central Florida will help even more children and families in need thanks to funds raised by the 16th Annual Wings of Hope Foundation Gala October 1.
More than 300 guests enjoyed a dinner, live band, and silent and live auctions at the Lake Mary Marriott in Lake Mary, Fla. This year’s theme, “Thanks a Million,” represented the foundation’s goal of raising $1 million since its creation 16 years ago.
More than one hundred silent auction items were up for bidding, along with nine live auction items. Hot items included a Dwight Howard Autographed Orlando Magic Basketball, a seven-day Holland America Line cruise for two and a Park Plaza Gardens Chef’s Table Dining Experience for ten. One live auction item, a High Definition LASIK Procedure, brought in $4,000.
The speaker of the evening was Xavier, a Boys Town Central Florida residential youth.
“He impressed the guests with how his attitude and behaviors have changed since being at Boys Town,” said Terry Knox, Boys Town Central Florida Development Director.
The beneficiaries from the event were Boys Town Central Florida, Intervention Services (of Orange County) and the Children’s Home Society of Volusia County.
The Wings of Hope Foundation was created by foundation President Kathy Gautsch to honor the memory of her son, Brian. Brian passed away at the age of 19 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. The foundation has sought to reach out and improve the lives of children in need.