VOL. 26 NO. 3
www.seabreezepublications.com
MARCH 2025
VIM Gala Raises Funds For Martin County’s Health Vo l u n t e e r s i n Medicine (VIM) Clinic hosted its annual VIM Gala at the Willoughby Golf Club on Saturday, January 25, bringing together over 150 supporters to raise $345,000 for the clinic’s mission. These funds help provide over $10 million in free health care services to eligible Martin County residents in need annually. The gala’s theme, Old Havana Nights, set the stage for an evening of celebration and philanthropy. VIM President Frank Byers, Jr., shared the Starfish Story to emphasize the clinic’s impact: “A man on the beach throws a starfish back into the ocean, telling a bystander, ‘It made a difference to that one.’ At VIM, every life we touch makes a difference, and together, we help so many.”
Doug and Ann Biek with Debbie and Bob Sopko Jordan Bromberg, Mary Fields and Chuck Cleaver
VIM Gala on page 3
Founding Friends Of Treasure Coast Hospice Safari Nights Roars To Success Annual Gala Raises $198K For Youth And Family Grief Support Programs The Founding Friends of Treasure Coast Hospice (FFOTCH) welcomed guests to a magnificently decorated “jungle” at its Safari Nights fundraising gala, held on Jan. 11, at Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club in Palm City. The sold-out event raised $198,000 to support Treasure Coast Hospice’s youth and family grief support programs. Surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and exotic animal décor, nearly 200 attendees enjoyed an evening of glamour and adventure. A fabulous dinner, entertainment and a spirited auction created an unforgettable night
designed to raise awareness and funds to support comprehensive grief counseling programs for children and families in the community. “Treasure Coast Hospice is deeply grateful to the Founding Friends for their continued support of our youth and family grief support programs,” said Foundation Director Agnes Palmer, CFRE. “The success of Safari Nights is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the incredible volunteers who are dedicated to ensuring resources that provide comfort, hope and healing are Safari Nights on page 4
Jean Daniels, Beth McKay, Patricia Imperiale, Barbara Smith and Kate Morris
Golf For Heroes Tournament Raises Over $11,000 For Marine’s Son By Charles Dame, Special to Seabreeze Publications Sunshine, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose filled Hammock Creek Golf Club during the recent Golf for Heroes Tournament – an inspiring community event dedicated to honoring the life of Marine Gunnery Sgt. Terry J. Elliott. Over $11,000 was raised for Gunnery Sgt. Elliott’s son, Preston, who is now pursuing college in memory of his father’s selfless service.
A Meaningful Tribute The day began with a stirring presentation of the colors by the Marine Corps Color Guard. Their presence reminded everyone of the sacrifice made by service members – and the importance of uplifting the families they leave behind. Golfers then launched into a spirited scramble format, swapping stories, putts, and plenty of high-fives. Community Spirit The tournament’s success was a testament to the generosity of local businesses and supporters. Stuart Sailfish Marina, Zen Den, All Area Roofing, and TC Brewfest played a key role in sponsoring the event. Their contributions not only added fun and flavor to the day but also ensured that the memory of a fallen hero would be honored in a tangible way. One Good Deed Can Change Everything With each swing, raffle ticket, and shared laugh, the community proved that coming
Golf For Heroes on page 6