Despite inclement weather earlier in the day necessitating a move indoors, the Environmental Learning Center’s Mangrove, Moonlight and Milan Gala fundraiser was a night of Italian elegance and island magic. This year, the premier event celebrated nearly 40 years of environmental stewardship and the vital partnership between the ELC and the School District of Indian River County.
Although prior galas have unfolded beneath the stars on the lawn in front of the Schidel Education & Event Pavilion, the rain-soaked grounds forced a change of plans. Arriving guests were directed instead to the Welcome Center, where they were greeted with a signature Limoncello cocktail or their choice of libation from the bar set up in the Tidal Art Gallery.
From there, everyone followed the vibrant sounds of Safia, an Orlando-based band, along the boardwalk to the Living Lagoon and Lagoon Gallery, where ELC staff had transformed the spaces into an inviting setting, with table seating for 175 guests nestled among aquariums and environmental displays.
And while the venue changed, the ambience and camaraderie did not, as guests continued to socialize, browse a massive silent auction of donated items, and mingle outside along the boardwalk.
Once seated, attendees enjoyed a culinary experience curated by Elizabeth D. Kennedy and Co. Catering, which brought the flavors of Italy to the lagoon. The family-style dinner featured an aperitivo, followed by citrus-marinated grilled chicken and a signature Limoncello cake adorned with edible flowers from Pura Vida.
School Superintendent David Moore, Ed.D., spoke about the critical partnership between the ELC and the district, which allows local students to experience environmental education as a direct extension of their classroom curriculum.
“Each and every day, students are at this facility. The concepts we teach in the classroom come to life on this campus, and this is exactly the kind of innovation we want to bring to every school,” said Moore.
“Students have the opportunity to learn, experience and engage in ways they never could by simply sitting in a classroom. The fact that we have this gift for our children in Indian River County and a partner willing to go above and beyond to connect with students, is truly a gift to the community,” he added.
“Our ELC was founded on this partnership,” said Barbara Schlitt Ford, ELC executive director.
“For nearly 40 years, we have worked with the school district to ensure every child in our county understands the value of our natural resources and their own well-being.”
The evening culminated with a mission-driven video and a Call to the Heart paddle raise, with proceeds directly supporting the ELC’s year-round operations, from its 2,000-gallon aquarium and touch tank to various wellness programs and miles of protected boardwalks.
“The community really showed up for us this year, resulting in the most successful fundraiser in our 38-year history. The overwhelming support from our guests touched us deeply and serves as a powerful validation that the work we do year-round is valued and championed by our community. Knowing our neighbors are so committed to our mission of hands-on, feet-wet education means the world to us,” said Ford.
“It ensures we can continue fostering nature connection and environmental stewardship for the next generation with even greater impact. Dr. Moore’s passionate support for our partnership with the school district was truly a highlight of the evening.”
For more information, visit DiscoverELC.org.
Photos by Kerry Firth
