December 8, 2024
New Beginnings’ 14th Annual Gala Raises Over $100,000 to Combat Homelessness
By Cindy Peterson
New Beginnings’ 14th Annual Gala Raises Over $100,000 to Combat Homelessness
New Beginnings of Central Florida is proud to announce the success of its 14th Annual Gala, ‘Dancing Under the Stars,’ held at the Clermont Performing Arts Center. The event brought together nearly 500 guests and raised over $100,000 to support families facing homelessness.
“This event demonstrated how a community can come together to create life-changing opportunities,” Jeremy Elliott, Community Relations Manager for New Beginnings, says.
The gala, a celebration of community spirit, resilience, and generosity, was filled with unforgettable moments. Guests were treated to performances by guitarist Dan Parker and 15-year-old Colombian musician Daniela Garzón, whose piano, violin, and heartfelt vocals mesmerized the audience. For the first time, a dedicated dance floor was introduced, becoming a highlight of the evening.
The event’s dance competition was a crowd favorite, featuring local leaders like Teresa Harper, Chief David Ezell, Donna Kirtland, and others stepping out of their comfort zones to support New Beginnings’ mission. Teresa Harper, Roshni Gradus, and J. Brian Miles were awarded the glitter ball trophies for their performances, while the People’s Choice Award went to Teresa Harper, with Donna Kirtland and Jim Hernandez taking second and third place.
“I was deeply moved by the sense of unity and purpose in the room,” Marketing Coordinator Maria Verplank says.
The success of the evening would not have been possible without the support of sponsors. The Harper Foundation continued its legacy as the Presenting Sponsor for the ninth consecutive year, joined by United Healthcare, PNC Bank, and AdventHealth. Carrabba’s catered the event, Amber Upshaw provided stunning decorations, and South Lake TV captured every moment.
The funds raised during the gala will support critical initiatives, including the Homeless Diversion Program, the Hand Up Program, and the completion of New Beginnings Village, helping families achieve stability and independence.
For more information, visit www.nbcfl.org or call (352) 404-6946.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.