Event co-chairs Jennifer and Marc Bell
Coconut Creek, FL – November 21, 2023 – SOS Children’s Villages Florida, a foster care community in Coconut Creek, FL, successfully hosted its highly anticipated annual fundraising gala, “The White Ball.” This star-studded evening took place on Saturday, November 11, at the enchanting Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, FL, where it brought together a community of over 600 like-minded individuals.
In continuation of the successful Hope and Home Gala legacy, “The White Ball” returned, delivering an extraordinary and purpose-driven experience, all in support of children in foster care. The event achieved a sold-out status and set a record-breaking milestone by raising over $750,000.
“The White Ball” isn’t just a gala; it’s a lifeline and a beacon of hope for the children we serve. Through this remarkable event, we raised vital funds that became the foundation for programs and essential needs for these deserving kids,” said Dawn Seay, Chief Development Officer for SOS Children’s Villages Florida.
The success of the evening was not only measured by the funds raised but also by the unforgettable experiences it offered to the attendees. The silent and live auctions featured amazing and unique one-of-a-kind items, along with trips of a lifetime, adding an exciting element to the sold-out event.
Guests were greeted with an air of mystery and intrigue as they entered through the silver doorway with white fog and white carpet. Inside, they experienced a medley of oddities, acrobatics, silver and white decor, and dazzling entertainment, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
During the event, attendees had the privilege of hearing from Roberto Montanez, the driving force behind Monarch High School’s football success. As the dedicated Assistant Football Coach, he brings passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the team. Roberto’s journey to this role is even more inspiring, as he overcame adversity while in foster care at SOS Children’s Villages Florida. His resilience and determination are evident in his coaching style, motivating players to reach their full potential.
Event co-chairs Sheri and Famous Rhodes of Parkland, Florida, along with Jennifer and Marc Bell of Boca Raton, Florida, extended a warm invitation to attendees for this transformative evening.
“The collective power of our community, channeled towards uplifting these children, was a remarkable spectacle, echoing the very spirit of unity,” said Sheri Rhodes.
“Experiencing this transformation firsthand, one couldn’t help but be moved by the profound impact we could make,” added Famous Rhodes.
“Our passion for this cause went beyond a single evening; it was about lighting the path for these children towards boundless possibilities,” remarked Jennifer Bell.
“Each “Hope and Home Gala” event is not just a moment in time; it serves as a catalyst, making tangible contributions towards a brighter, more promising future,” stated Marc Bell.
Lastly, as a special treat for the guests, talented performers entertained the audience during the event. Octavious, an inspiring teen from SOS, showcased his passion for dance by leading a remarkable performance with fellow students, leaving the audience in awe of their talent and enthusiasm.
For more information on SOS Children’s Villages Florida, their annual Hope and Home Gala, and the upcoming Dragon Ball in November 2024 at the Hard Rock, please visit www.sosflorida.com and www.hopeandhomegala.org
ABOUT SOS CHILDREN’S VILLAGES:
SOS Children’s Villages Florida is a foster care community serving up to seventy-two children in the residential program with the primary focus of keeping large sibling groups together while they are in care. Additionally, SOS offers the “NEXT STEPS” program which features a continuum of services for over one hundred and fifty young adults in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties once they have aged out of foster care at eighteen. The Coconut Creek Villages is one of a network of five hundred Villages across the world on each continent.