Illuminations Gala Benefiting Chapman Partnership

Gene & Lani Drody, Trish & Dan Bell, Gala Co-Chairs

More than 800 guests joined Chapman Partnership to celebrate its yearly accomplishments at this year’s annual Illuminations Gala. The evening of dining, dancing and entertainment works to raise funds to provide support of the men, women and children that reside at the two homeless assistance centers run by the non-profit and recognize and honor the many generous donors and volunteers who support the mission. The evening’s theme represented the shining light in the lives of the 5,000 men, women and families with children that Chapman Partnership serves annually. Illuminated acrylic dinner tables set the brilliant color palette for the evening as guests danced the night away on a twinkling illuminated dance floor, a vision brought to life by WOW Factor Marketing. Held at the JW Marriott Marquis, the event provided guests with an avant-garde, exciting and breathtaking experience.

During the event, Chapman Partnership awarded the Alvah H. Chapman, Jr. Humanitarian Award, given to a leader who follows the moral and civic examples of Alvah H. Chapman, Jr. in serving the homeless. This year the award went to Mrs. Sash A. Spencer who has demonstrated great humanitarian initiative and compassion for her fellow man.

H. Daniel Vincent, Laurie Jennings, Trish & Dan Bell

“This Illuminations Gala is essential for our organization and our residents” said H. Daniel Vincent, president and CEO of Chapman Partnership. “We want to show our appreciation for our 57 member Gala Committee, led by event Co-Chairs, Trish and Dan Bell, and Lani and Gene Drody. This could not be done without the dedication and love exhibited by our committee and our volunteers and donors. They are indeed true champions for our community. Daily, they are changing our resident’s lives.”

The event was followed by Chapman Partnership’s nextgen After Gala Party, which was presented by Chapman Partnership’s young professionals group.

The party featured special entertainment with a one of a kind performance from Batucada Brazilian dancers and Tony Choy, an open bar and free valet. nextgen is made up of Miami’s young professionals and community ambassadors, between the ages of 25-40, who work to increase awareness, revenue and advocacy for Chapman Partnership.