Teachers, principals and students posed and twirled wearing the latest fashions; artists donated Teacher’s Pet sculptures for auction; and locals enjoyed a one-of-a-kind fundraising event last year and raised $30,000 for Pinecrest’s five public schools.
The Fashion in the Gardens Luncheon and Fashion Show would not be possible without sponsors and silent auction donations by renowned artists and generous merchants that last year included the Williamson Automotive Group, Macy’s and Phil Fung Studios.
The event is slated to take place for the second consecutive year in the picturesque Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Road, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 28. Pinecrest resident and parent Ceil Fitts knows that a vibrant school system is the foundation for a good community.
“Fashion in the Gardens is a wonderful example of how local businesses and Pinecrest truly show their support for the five Village schools,” said Fitts, president of the Palmetto High School Parent Teacher Association. “The funds generated by the event help ensure that the quality of local education will remain strong.”
This year’s goal is to raise $60,000, doubling last year’s proceeds. In its first year, the event drew more than 400 guests and provided an excellent opportunity for business owners to market their product or service to a receptive and loyal group of patrons. The money raised goes to educational programs, classroom supplies, campus improvements, and technological resources in Palmetto, Pinecrest and Howard Drive Elementary Schools, and to Palmetto Middle and High Schools. Some 6,000 students benefit from the proceeds of this event.
Depending on the sponsorship level, sponsors get recognition at three major events benefiting Pinecrest public schools, an ad in the event program, and recognition in the Pinecrest Tribune, social media and newsletters. Other fundraising events for Pinecrest’s five public schools are the Rotary Club of Dadeland and Coral Gables Golf Tournament held in the Biltmore Hotel and Taste of Pinecrest in Pinecrest Gardens.
Mayor Lerner helped raise funds for a Smart Board to be placed in each of Pinecrest’s classrooms through the smARTy Dog campaign and continues to champion education initiatives in the Village.
“It is a shared vision for parents, local business owners and Village government for our schools’ reputation for excellence to attract young families to our community,” said Lerner. “It truly takes a village to raise our children.”
Fashion in the Gardens Luncheon and Fashion Show was the brainchild of the Pinecrest Education Advisory Council and provides a forum for discussion, problem solving and seeking creative opportunities and resources to support and enhance area public schools.
For more information on being a sponsor, email Mayor Cindy Lerner at mayorlerner@ gmail.com.
