Guests in their finest evening attire gathered at the Moorings Yacht and Country Club for a festive and shimmering Seaside Sparkle Gala to benefit the Hibiscus Children’s Center and the Vero Beach based Hibiscus Village, which houses teens ages 12 through 17.
As always, the ladies of the Indian River Guild had outdone themselves, amassing a huge selection of silent- and live-auction items which were perused during the cocktail hour, and creating the lovely centerpieces and décor for the dining room.
In his welcome address, Matt Markley, Hibiscus CEO and president, offered profound thanks to the nearly 200 guests in attendance.
“The fact that you got all gussied up tonight and came means you really care about Hibiscus and the kids we serve. On behalf of our entire organization, and most importantly, on behalf of the children whose life stories you are helping to rewrite, please accept my deepest gratitude,” said Markley.
“Thank you for choosing to show up and remind these kids that even in life’s toughest moments, there are people like you who refuse to give up. You’re not just protecting and nurturing kids.
You’re giving them the message that their lives matter and that their future is worth fighting for,” said Markley.
He recognized the Hibiscus board members in attendance, who he described as dedicated, compassionate leaders. He said they were committed to the mission of Hibiscus, which is to support children who are removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect and ensure that they are afforded safety, stability and hope for the future.
He also thanked the “amazing sponsors,” noting that they had exceeded the sponsorship goal of $140,000.
“Tonight’s event would not be possible without our incredible event co-chairs, whose passion, energy and unwavering commitment to children facing the hardest moments in their lives inspire us all. We are truly grateful to Donna Scott and Lisa Giessert,” said Markley.
“Also tonight, we are surrounded by a group of women, the ladies of the Indian River Guild, who believe in something powerful, that every child deserves safety, love and a chance to heal. When children are removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect, their world changes in a minute, but because of you ladies, they never have to face that moment alone,” said Markley.
He added that the Indian River Guild had raised an impressive $10 million for Hibiscus since it was established in 1997.
“I’d like to end with a final thought. Kids who come to Hibiscus often live in a world filled with pain and uncertainty. Waking up each day not knowing if they will be safe. In homes where love should flourish, they face neglect that robs them of their basic needs, food, warmth and affection.
Yet amidst the darkness, many show remarkable resilience. I know. I’ve seen it. And you all make that possible. From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” said Markley.
The evening continued with a gourmet dinner, a live auction and dancing to the music of the Street Talk Band.
For more information, visit HibiscusChildrensCenter.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
