Page 1 - Martin Downs Bulletin - March '25

VOL. 27 NO. 3 www.seabreezepublications.com MARCH 2025

VIM Gala Raises Funds For Martin County’s Health

Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic hosted its annual Health which donates
VIM Gala at the Willoughby Golf Club on Saturday, nearly $4 million worth
January 25, bringing together over 150 supporters to of lab tests and other
raise $345,000 for the clinic’s mission. These funds help services.
provide over $10 million in free health care services to Executive Director
eligible Martin County residents in need annually. Mary Fields shared,
The gala’s theme, Old Havana Nights, set the stage “Our guests truly
for an evening of celebration and philanthropy. VIM embraced this year’s
President Frank Byers, Jr., shared the Starfish Story theme, filling the night
to emphasize the clinic’s impact: “A man on the beach with excitement and joy. Renee and Mike Ciferri
throws a starfish back into the ocean, telling a bystander, Their support makes a
‘It made a difference to that one.’ At VIM, every life we lasting impact on the
touch makes a difference, and together, we help so many.” health and well-being
Travis, a patient at the clinic, highlighted how the clinic of our community, and
has impacted his life and the lives of many others in the for that, we are deeply
community. His story reminds us that every contribution grateful.”
at VIM makes a real, personal impact. Thanks to the
Ninety-eight percent of all funds raised go directly to generous supporters of
patient services. That’s possible because VIM Clinic is this event, VIM Clinic
staffed primarily by volunteers and receives support from
community partners such as Cleveland Clinic Martin Jordan Bromberg, Mary Fields and Chuck Cleaver VIM Gala on page 3 Kathy and Gary McClain
Founding Friends Of Treasure Coast Hospice

Safari Nights Roars To Success

Annual Gala Raises $198K “Treasure Coast Hospice
is deeply grateful to the
For Youth And Family Grief Founding Friends for their
Support Programs continued support of our
youth and family grief support
programs,” said Foundation
The Founding Friends of Treasure Coast Hospice Director Agnes Palmer,
(FFOTCH) welcomed guests to a magnificently decorated CFRE. “The success of Safari
“jungle” at its Safari Nights fundraising gala, held on Jan. Nights is a testament to the
11, at Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club in Palm City. unwavering commitment
The sold-out event raised $198,000 to support Treasure Coast of the incredible volunteers
Hospice’s youth and family grief support programs. who are dedicated to
Surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and exotic animal ensuring resources that
décor, nearly 200 attendees enjoyed an evening of glamour provide comfort, hope and
and adventure. A fabulous dinner, entertainment and a healing are available to
spirited auction created an unforgettable night designed those who are grieving in
to raise awareness and funds to support comprehensive our community.”
grief counseling programs for children and families in the
community. Safari Nights on page 3 Safari Nights Committee
Golf For Heroes

Tournament Raises Over A Meaningful Tribute
The day began with a stirring presentation of the colors
$11,000 For Marine’s Son by the Marine Corps Color Guard. Their presence reminded
everyone of the sacrifice made by service members – and
By Charles Dame, Special to Seabreeze Publications the importance of uplifting the families they leave behind.
Sunshine, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose Golfers then launched into a spirited scramble format,
filled Hammock Creek Golf Club during the recent Golf swapping stories, putts, and plenty of high-fives.
for Heroes Tournament – an inspiring community event Community Spirit
dedicated to honoring the life of Marine Gunnery Sgt. Terry The tournament’s success was a testament to the generosity
J. Elliott. Over $11,000 was raised for Gunnery Sgt. Elliott’s of local businesses and supporters. Stuart Sailfish Marina, Zen
son, Preston, who is now pursuing college in memory of his Den, All Area Roofing, and TC Brewfest played a key role in
father’s selfless service. sponsoring the event. Their contributions not only added fun
and flavor to the day but also
ensured that the memory of a
fallen hero would be honored
in a tangible way.
One Good Deed Can Change
Everything
With each swing, raffle
ticket, and shared laugh, the
community proved that coming
together for a common cause Golf For Heroes on page 4