A Special Holiday Thank You
November 22, 2017 – Duvall Homes would like to recognize its friends, families and community partners and the importance of their interest, involvement and investment in empowering people in our community living with developmental disabilities.
“As the holiday season approaches, we are reminded of all of our blessings,” said Duvall Homes’ CEO Steven DeVane. “We’re thankful for our dedicated staff and community members who have helped us not only weather the effects of Hurricane Irma, but who have stood by us throughout the year.”
Their support was evident at this year’s Inspiration Gala, which took place at the Sanborn Center in DeLand, September 29, 2017. Since the Gala’s inception, three years ago, the organization’s annual fundraiser continues to reach new milestones, this year, raising more than $85,000.
Of the more than 200 guests who attended, sponsors included Reames Employee Benefits Solutions, DaVita Labs, Florida Hospital, Florida Public Utilities, Park Shore Pharmacon, and numerous others who contributed to the event’s success.
“Supporting Duvall Homes is easy to do,” said honored guest John S. Olivari of Olivari & Associates. “The more I see the happy faces of people who call Duvall home, you just know they are doing it all right. I’m inspired.” Olivari was this year’s recipient of The Alanson and Thelma Duvall Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service.
Highlights from the evening included an exhibit of STEM-inspired works of art created by residents of Duvall Homes, performances by Stetson University’s School of Music students, dinner by award-winning Puff ‘N Stuff, entertainment by Johnny Wild & The Delights, a high-energy 6-piece 50’s/60’s band sponsored by Kemp Realty Group and an exciting silent auction.
Your Generosity Funds Our Greatest Needs
Florida ranks 49 out of 50 states in funding services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and that shortfall has a ripple effect on family members, employers, the community and the state. Donations that come through fundraisers like the Gala are vital to sustaining Duvall’s mission. Following the significant effects from the recent hurricane season, this year’s appeal at the Gala was specific to raising funds to furnish all group homes with generators.
Gala guest, William Voges, challenged the crowd to raise $10K in the final minutes of the program in order to be matched with a $10K donation from the William J. Voges Foundation – the extraordinary crowd in attendance met this challenge!
“Raising funds for group home generators has been a long process that began following Hurricane Matthew in 2016,” said Duvall’s Chief Operating Officer, Marsha Shankleton. “Thanks to the generosity of the parents, guardians and family members of our residents, and friends in the community, we are now in the process of securing necessary surveys and permits, installing propane tanks and moving forward to furnishing all of our group homes with generators.”
Each sponsor, donor and volunteer lived up to the name of the Inspiration Gala and the I’m In mantra. “You have impacted the lives of all of our residents for this coming year and years that follow, and we thank you,” added DeVane.
Approaching its 73rd year empowering people with developmental disabilities, Duvall Homes is proud of the community it serves and the overwhelming kindness and support that continues to strengthen its mission. Join the I’m In conversation at ImInspired.org.
Posted by Lisa Habermehl