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Emerald Ball
Black-tie gala raises funds for Catholic Charities of Collier County
Naples--The Emerald Ball welcomed more than 200 guests to the Hilton Hotel on March 14 for a black-tie celebration that has served as an annual fundraiser for the past 24 years for Catholic Charities of Collier County. The ballroom was dressed richly in green and gold and patrons donned their best evening wear.
Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the guest of honor at the gala
with the tradition of always being held on the Saturday evening closest
to St. Patrick's Day. He congratulated members of the ball committee and sponsors for a successful event and an exciting evening.
Ball Chairperson Nancy Duggan, Catholic Charities of Collier County
Director Bob Saunders, and Catholic Charities Board of Directors Member
Lew Schmidt also addressed ball patrons. All speakers thanked those
present for supporting Catholic Charities during a time when the demand
for services has dramatically increased due to current economic
conditions.
The ball offered silent and live auctions along with dinner and dancing. The
live auction featured a trip to the Grammy Awards and getaways to France
and Wyoming. The highlight of the live auction was Dinner with Bishop
Dewane where winners will be treated to a gourmet feast with several friends and their special guest.
Ball Chairwoman Duggan said the goal was not only to raise funds for Catholic Charities of Collier County but to heighten awareness of programs and services the agency offers the needy of the community. Services include financial assistance, food pantry, School on Wheels, immigration assistance, family
and individual and group counseling, refugee services and employment placement,
legal services, after-school tutoring and youth summer programs.
Photo #1: Bishop Frank J. Dewane (left), Emerald Ball Chairwoman Nancy Duggan,
and Catholic Charities of Collier County Director Bob Saunders.
Photo #2:
Ball Patrons fill the dance floor.
Photos #3: Long-time Catholic Charities supporter and Board of Directors Member Lew Schmidt addresses the crowd.