Easterseals SW Florida raises $600,000 at fundraising luncheon

Easterseals Southwest Florida raised $600,000 at its annual Abilities Shining Luncheon on March 6. Presented by Ginger Judge, the organization’s signature event was attended by 380 guests and served as the organization’s most successful luncheon to date.

“This event marks an incredible beginning to our fundraising efforts for the year ahead. From the youngest to the young at heart and every person in between, our programs and services would not be available without generous support from the community,” said Tom Waters, president and CEO of Easterseals Southwest Florida.

Guests heard about notable accomplishments from 2023, including becoming a national “Autism Center for Excellence” and expanding the reach of diagnostic and medical services available to the community. The adult and preschool choirs performed “Lean on me” and “I love you” with the help of the teachers and a music therapist.

“I’d like to thank our event chairs, Sarah Renkliyuz, Taylor Teymuri and Brittany Najmy-Lambiris, honorary chairs, Tammy Karp, Terri Klauber, Barbara Najmy, our Board of Directors and our wonderful partners and sponsors for helping us raise awareness and much needed funds for children and adults living with disabilities,” Waters said.

The Abilities Shining Luncheon serves as a tribute to the individuals and transformative programs at Easterseals Southwest Florida, spanning early childhood development, K-12 education, veterans and first responders support, the Autism Center of Excellence, therapy services, and family support services with the many partner nonprofits who help make those services possible.

To learn more about Easterseals Southwest Florida, visit eastersealsswfl.org.