Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program Annual Gala

The Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program hosted its gala at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental with 500 of South Florida’s leading philanthropists, celebrities and politicians in attendance. Gala Chair Marisa Toccin Lucas along with founders Jennifer Valoppi and Don Browne planned an unforgettable evening in celebration of Women of Tomorrow’s Annual Gala and its 18th year of mentoring at-risk young girls in South Florida.

The evening began with a lavish cocktail reception featuring hors d’oeuvre stations, as well as the anticipated silent auction of more than 100 items from top entertainment, fashion, hospitality and luxury brands. Big-ticket items included a $5,000 shopping spree from Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, a 3 Year Lease on a 2015 Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible courtesy of THE COLLECTION, two tickets for the 2016 People’s Choice Awards, a Chimento three piece jewelry set courtesy of Kirk Jewelers, and an interactive cooking dinner party for 10 by Ingrid Hoffmann.

Following the cocktail reception, guests took their seats in the ballroom and were treated to a performance by South Florida’s Soul Survivors. The party continued as guests danced the night away to the sounds of Danny Stern Music. Guests enjoyed an inspired four-course menu prepared by the Mandarin Oriental’s Executive Chef.

Renowned artist James Rosenquist was honored at the event as the program’s inaugural recipient of the Spirit of Tomorrow Award – honoring leaders in the fields of arts, entertainment, activism and philanthropy who demonstrate the desire to utilize skills for social good. Also honored were Empowerment Award Honorees, Carol & Marc Iacovelli; Leadership Award Honoree, Alberto Carvalho; Mentor of the Year, Pam Giganti; and Excellence Honorees, Publix Super Markets & Publix Super Markets Charities.

Founder & President, Jennifer Valoppi says: “I believe one of the most effective ways to break the cycles of violence, poverty and abuse, is to uplift the young women who will raise the next generation. It all stops here. Women of Tomorrow is one of the most unique and powerful organizations of its kind anywhere. Our amazing mentors are the reason for our tremendous success in getting at-risk young girls to overcome their obstacles and live up to their full potential.”