The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center announces that Saltwater Cowboy raised $164,000 to support Heights Early Learning, AfterSchool, Summer Camp, and programs that build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The event was held Friday, October 24 at MarineMax Fort Myers.
“We believe a decent education allows at-risk kids to meet, challenge, and raise the bar on the world’s narrative of them,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder, President & CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “Our enriching preschool, after-school, and summer camp programs ensure parents can work while their kids learn, are safe, and have fun. In addition, our adult and family programs provide opportunities for self-sufficiency. This event supports our families—and it was a lot of fun!”
Guests enjoyed an extensive raw bar by Matt Asen of Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market, signature cocktails, and a steak dinner prepared by Jay Johnson of Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, accompanied by fresh Gulf shrimp. Live music by the Back Country Boys kept the dance floor full, and attendees explored a selection of luxury boats on display courtesy of MarineMax.
A lively silent and live auction boosted the fundraising total, featuring: an Everglades python hunt with Huntress Amy Siewe, an in-home dinner for eight by Chef Teh Peng, a trip to Iceland to see the Northern Lights, a sunset yacht cruise courtesy of MarineMax, and an ultimate at-home raw bar party for sixteen from Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market.
Sponsors included: Hightower Thomas & Swartz Wealth Management, B&I Contractors, Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., RG Architects, Laurie and Bill Harkey, FPL, RS Walsh Landscaping, Matern Engineering, Lee Drywall, Collaboratory, and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank.
Well-known media personality, Gina Birch, emceed the event.
The event was chaired by Jamie Fautz and Tiffany Kelly. The Heights events committee, community partners, and volunteers contributed to the event’s success.
For more information about The Heights Foundation, visit www.heightsfoundation.org or call (239) 482-7706.
