The Immokalee Foundation has announced that their 2024 Charity Classic: The Power of Education Gala raised over $2.3 million—the highest total ever achieved for the popular annual event.
Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Tiburón, the funds will support the Foundation’s diverse programming in their time-honored effort to transform young lives and support the educational needs of over 1,300+ students in Immokalee.
For over 32 years, The Immokalee Foundation has been preparing the next generation of leaders through a 100% focus on education, career readiness, and professional development for students in Immokalee—from kindergarten through postsecondary education. The Foundation provides new pathways to success and financial independence through robust programming that prepares students for well-paying, in-demand professional careers in Business Management & Entrepreneurship, Education & Human Services, Engineering & Construction Management and Healthcare.
“This is an incredible achievement that wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of a very gracious Southwest Florida community,” said Noemi Y. Perez, President and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation. “By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our community and ensuring that young people have the tools they need to succeed professionally and achieve financial freedom.”
The event was co-chaired by Carol and Thomas Joseph and Eileen and Dr. Brian Voynick, with the gentlemen also serving as Emcees.
“Many of our guests were first-time gala attendees,” observed Eileen and Dr. Brian Voynick. “Having the opportunity to expose more people to the Foundation was one of our goals. We want to see the programs expand and create opportunities for more students to benefit from The Immokalee Foundation.”
Carol Joseph, who also serves on The Immokalee Foundation’s Board of Directors, and her husband, Thomas, agree. “We have always directed our time, talent, and treasure to the needs of children, particularly education. Education is the pathway to each individual’s well-being and success. Seeing the generosity on display that evening was heartwarming, and it made us proud to be a part of it.”
Next-up: The Immokalee Foundation’s Charity Classic Pro-Am Golf Tournament, including a Pairings Party on Sunday, November 17, 2024, followed by the golf tournament on Monday, November 18, 2024, both at Bay Colony Golf Club. For more information, call 239-430-9122.
As for the importance of supporting the Foundation’s annual signature events, the Josephs thoughtfully added: “This is one of the best investments a person can make in changing the lives of a student, a family, and an entire community.”
