Broward Partnership hosts Leadership Gala
The Broward Partnership has been full since the day it opened in 1999. To help fund the 230-bed homeless assistance shelter in Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Partnership is hosting its 17th annual Salute to Leadership Gala on May 20 at the Signature Grand in Davie.
Proceeds from the gala will go toward the operation of the facility, which offers three meals a day to men, women and children; offers workforce training, medical and dental care; mental health diagnosis and treatment; substance abuse education, prevention, intervention and treatment; access to child care and parenting support; GED classes, vocational assessment, job readiness, training and placement services and life skills and computer classes.
“Financially, for any nonprofit, any money is important, but it’s an opportunity to use as a fundraiser and ‘friend raiser.’ They can learn more about what we do and hopefully can get involved. It’s public awareness, a fundraiser and also a great time,” said Michael Long, Bro ward Partnership’ s chief development officer. Not only will the gala raise money, which Long said he hopes will be about $235,000 to $250,000, but it will also honor several people who have contributed to the Broward Partnership.
Ultimate Software and Breakthru Beverage Florida will be presented with the Corporate Trusteeship Award for both their donation of in-kind resources and financial support. The Sally Goldman Foundation will be honored with the Foundation Trusteeship Award for its contributions to the partnership.
“It’s a diverse group. They are always supportive, both with in-kind donations and support, they’re always there,” Long said. “They bring different things to the table and are worth being recognized this year.”
Joanne Snead, who joined the Partnership’s board of directors in 2009, will also be awarded with the inaugural Broward Part-nership Leadership Award.
“I’m speechless. It was a great surprise and an incredible honor. I work with many very interesting professional people on the board that’ve done great things in the community and to be singled out is wonderful for me,” she said.
“They are given rare opportunities to change their lives for the better. The key is case management and workforce development. We help them find jobs and a place to live, give them food and donated furniture. We don’t just allow homelessness to continue,” said Long.
Broward Partnership is always looking for the community to get involved by feeding meals to the homeless, helping in the computer lab, with resumes and the clothing room to help pick out clothes for job interviews.
“It’s a fabulously run organization with a very committed board of directors and wonderful staff who show tremendous caring to people who have nothing. We welcome people to take tours and get involved with however they feel comfortable,” said board member and co-chairperson of the gala, Elliot P. Borkson.
People attending the gala are encouraged to wear 1960s attire for an evening of dining and dancing.
Individual tickets are $250, and various sponsorship opportunities are available.
For information, contact Berne Teeple at 954-832-7037 or bteeple@