Members of the United Way of Indian River County Alexis de Tocqueville Society were celebrated at the third annual Tocqueville Society Gala last Wednesday evening. The invitational event recognized members’ generous contributions to the philanthropic initiative that bears the Tocqueville name and epitomizes the philosophy of the United Way – that “advancing the common good means creating opportunities for a better life for all.”
Tocqueville Society members donate a minimum of $10,000 annually, with many of Vero’s transplants and snowbirds contributing equally to United Ways in their hometown as well as locally. Membership in the group has grown over the past 20 years from four to 68 members, and it has been recognized for its growth and contributions relative to population.
Guest mingled over cocktails while being entertained by talented musicians from the Charter High School, before sitting down to enjoy a gourmet dinner. John’s Island Real Estate was the presenting sponsor, with additional sponsorship by Northern Trust Bank, Vero Insurance and Pure Insurance.
In his welcome, Alexis de Tocqueville steering committee chairman Fritz Blaicher noted this year’s contributions of $990,000 represented about one-third of the money raised toward the 2015-16 United Way Campaign. He also shared that Publix Supermarket contributions amounted to $516,000.
Stressing the importance of those two major funding groups, Blaicher said, “United Way is dependent on Alexis de Tocqueville and Publix because we do not have the corporate base that most United Ways have. I just can’t thank you enough.”
A short video presentation featured several prominent residents relating the reasons behind their own involvement. Many also encouraged legacy gifts which will enable the local United Way Foundation to build its endowment and create a lasting legacy of annual contributions in their name.
Guest speaker Dr. Robert Baggott, Senior Minister of Community Church of Vero Beach, kept the crowd laughing with a number of humorous stories, before speaking about the power of human potential when people follow their calling.
“Every one of you has heard the call to good, and you have responded with great generosity. Something has called you to step forward, to step up, to reach out, and you my friends are honoring the good,” said Baggott. “If we just keep our ears tuned and our hearts open we’re able to hear more and more and more of that call to good. And you friends have demonstrated that you have heard that voice and your response to it through United Way is radically nudging our world to the good.”
United Way CEO Michael Kint surprised Fritz and Gay Blaicher with the presentation of a special token of appreciation, recognizing more than 20 years of volunteer engagement and leadership. The couple has been especially encouraging of fellow John’s Island residents to participate in the work of the United Way and to contribute to the John’s Island Community Campaign and the Tocqueville Society.
