A special gift helps a charity raise more than $5 million.
In less than a week, the nonprofit STARability Foundation, which supports people with autism and developmental disabilities, raised funds in one of its most successful campaigns to date.
The record total was reached through donations after the charity’s STAR Gala on Feb. 7 and an additional $1.2 million from one donor, a press release said.
The STARability Foundation raises $5 million in one of its most successful campaigns to date. The total was reached through donations after the charity’s STAR Gala on Feb. 7 and an additional $1.2 million from one donor.
‘The decisive moment’
“This is more than just an event,” said Karen Govern, CEO of the STARability Foundation. “This is a defining moment for our organization.”
“We are deeply grateful to every donor, sponsor, volunteer and advocate who helps us expand STAR opportunities.”
The eighth annual STAR Gala: Abilities Shine: Generosity Blooms took place at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Tiburon, raising a record $3.8 million that night alone.
The evening was co-hosted by the sisters and long-term supporters Jenny Haire, Barbie Kellam and Morgan Rodgers, and was supported by STOCK Development and more than 50 sponsors.
An additional $1.2 million in donations received after the gala was earmarked for the charity’s future campus projects.
The STARability Foundation raises $5 million in one of its most successful campaigns to date. The total was reached through donations after the charity’s STAR Gala on Feb. 7 and an additional $1.2 million from one donor.
set new record
The gala’s fundraising total exceeded last year’s record of $3.2 million and signaled growing support for STARability’s continued expansion.
The charity is developing a regional campus and expanding enrichment and vocational programs for people with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Nearly 600 guests attended the event, which included specialty cocktails, dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions and performances by STAR participants.
“STARability is my second home”
During the evening’s “Meeting Our Needs” portion, attendees pledged nearly $2.5 million in operational support.
Popular auction items that raised significant amounts of money included an island resort in Keawading and the Bahamas, each fetching $110,000.
Other top offerings include VIP sports experiences, FIFA World Cup packages and Napa Valley music and wine tours.
The silent auction alone raised more than $100,000, including $26,000 for the Notre Dame Experience package.
The STARability Foundation raises $5 million in one of its most successful campaigns to date. The total was reached through donations after the charity’s STAR Gala on Feb. 7 and an additional $1.2 million from one donor.
lasting impact
The charity also presented philanthropist and Mattamy Homes CEO Peter Gilgan with a Visionary Award in recognition of his continued support and leadership.
Funds raised will be used to fund STARability’s new 5-acre campus on Northbrooke Drive in Naples.
Construction has begun on the Golisano Project Center, designed to serve as a regional center for inclusive services and will convert an existing 42,000 square foot building into a state-of-the-art facility.
For nearly 40 years, the STARability Foundation has provided vocational training, education, social engagement and community engagement programs for people with disabilities.
The organization supports individuals ages 14 and older with life-changing opportunities based on teamwork and community connections.
For more information about STARability programs and services, visit starability.org.
This story was created by a reporter Dave Osborne, dosborn@usatodayco.comwith the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Journalists are involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publication process. learn more.
This article originally appeared in the Naples Daily News: STARability Foundation raises $5 million from special gift gala in Naples
