During a recent meeting of the Coral Gables Woman’s Club, Casino Night Chair and CGWC past president Linda Hartwell announced the March fundraiser had netted in excess of $23,000.
Tracking all the expenses, club treasurer Nancy DesMangles, was recognized for her accounting efforts and awarded a silver elephant by club president Mayra Dominguez as the “Member of the Month.”
Also, celebrating a great fundraiser were district Rotarians who brought in a total of $62,870 for the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation with their Golf Ball Drop at The Biltmore Golf Course. This is the second highest total for this crazy Helicopter Ball Drop since it began, eclipsed only by last year’s total of $67,330.
With 38 Rotary District 6990 clubs participating, the Drop raised $39.32 per capita. During the past seven years, the Helicopter Golf Ball Drop has raised $338,240. Kudos to Coral Gables Rotarian Chris Morrison and his fellow Rotarian volunteers for coordinating this effort that will benefit Rotary’s many humanitarian and educational programs.
Speaking of Rotary, on May 2, district Rotarians will be gathering for a fun night at Marlins Ballpark. If you are at the game that day, expect to see a crowd in Rotary blue and gold shirts. These types of activities are a great way for nonprofit organizations and business groups to socialize.
During a recent visit to Marlins Park, this writer joined community leaders and prospective season ticket holders for an opportunity to check out the many benefits offered to season ticket holders including hearing from Marlins president David Sampson in the players dressing room, getting photos in the dugout and having lunch in the dining room.
The Miami Marlins have been hosting several community groups for meetings as well, and most recently provided their media room for a forum of philanthropic organizations and charitable groups coordinated by Neighbors4Neighbors Lynn Cameron on a regular basis. This offers groups a chance to learn more about their missions as well as an opportunity to seek out partnerships that are mutually beneficial.
Finally, mark your calendars for May 1 and register to join the fun at the Westin Colonnade for an “over the top magical” Casino Night fundraiser presented by the Westin Colonnade and the Coral Gables Rotary to benefit Give Kids the World Village and the programs the Rotary Foundation of Coral Gables.
With an “Alice in Wonderland” theme, guests may come in cocktail attire or appropriate costumes for the young at heart. One hundred percent of the sponsorship dollars will go to charity thanks to the Westin and the many in-kind donors. Tickets start at $75 per person. For more information, call Gloria at 305-284-7379.
Until next time, keep making each day count.
If you want to submit information for this column, please send your news via email to gloriagalburns@aol.com.
