- November 21, 2024
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The Florida weather did not disappoint as the sun set over Sarasota Bay while guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and dined Nov. 3 at the Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center's annual black-tie gala on the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens property.
SPARCCle in the Garden was attended by 246 guests who also participated in both a live and silent auction where Gift of the Heart Donations reached $300,000. Attendees also enjoyed dancing to the amazing sounds of everyone's favorite party starters and music experts, the Bay Kings.
"It's inspiring to see so many people come together in support of survivors of domestic and sexual violence," said SPARCC President and CEO Jessica Hays. "The funds raised will enable SPARCC to continue its important work to offer a safer, brighter future for those we serve."
The returning presenting sponsors of SPARCCle in the Garden are Joan & Larry Castellani from the Lawrence P. Castellani Family Foundation. Co-chairs for the gala are Cathy Bachand, JoAnn Heffernan Heisen, Bonnie McIntyre, Kimberley Pelyk and Sue Wilson.
Formed in 1979, SPARCC is the only state-certified center for domestic violence and sexual assault services for Sarasota and DeSoto counties. All services are free and confidential.