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15th Annual Heart of Loveland BBQ

Ben, Casper, Elisa, and David, alongside the incredible team at Loveland Creates, captivated the audience at the 15th Annual Heart of Loveland BBQ presented by Gulf Coast Community Foundation. The night proved to be an unparalleled success, thanks to the overwhelming support from donors, sponsors, volunteers, staff, and vendors. The generosity exceeded expectations, greatly surpassing the $25,000 match offered by the Suncoast Foundation of Handicapped Children and another match by an anonymous donor to be one of the most successful years to date.


The evening kicked off with a lively silent auction, fun photos at the photobooth and delectable appetizers courtesy of Snook Haven (Venice Pier Group). Gold Coast Eagle Distributing and Budweiser provided refreshing beverages, complemented by a sophisticated whiskey bar from British Open Pub. Cafe Venice brought a selection of wines, while Lewandowski's ensured there were delightful non-alcoholic options through their contribution. Special mention goes to Brent Pinkerton (Pinkerton Payroll and Insurance) for crafting a mouthwatering BBQ feast featuring succulent meats, macaroni and cheese, beans, coleslaw, bread, and a banana cream pie that left attendees clamoring for the recipe. Brent Pinkerton, alongside community members, board members, and over 40 dedicated food volunteers, poured their heart and soul into creating a memorable dining experience. A heartfelt thank you to Christ Venice Church for generously sharing their kitchen facilities! The program commenced with opening remarks from Loveland Board Chair Bob Keller. President and CEO Patrick Guerin III then presented the Advocate of the Year award to Hebe Beauchamp and the Employee of the Year award to Jessica Baird. Associate Pastor Sarah R. Wise from Grace United Methodist Church delivered an inspiring invocation. Serving as the evening's emcee, Evan Duke from Classic Creations in Diamonds and Gold orchestrated the dinner proceedings in acknowledgment of the event's generous sponsors (see the list below). Following the conclusion of the silent auction, the Loveland Creates Performing Arts Theatre group took the stage with remarks from Luke McFatrich, Loveland Creates Manager. The performance featured a number from their recent show, "Spookley the Square Pumpkin," with standout solos by Casper and Jeri. The evening concluded with wonderful holiday tunes and the Loveland Song.


The live auction began with exclusive items contributed by Loveland participants. Jeri proudly modeled the winning ugly sweater from their recent contest, fetching a remarkable sum in not one but two separate bidding times. Additional auction highlights included a striking large print made by the participants of Loveland Creates and an unforgettable "Day on the Donzi" boat experience. A poignant mission moment video followed, featuring touching stories from Ed DiNunzio, volunteer & parent of participant April, Kimberli Larson, volunteer & parent of Ben, Ben Larson, participant, and Irvin Agosto, Venice Program Manager. The outpouring of love and support for Loveland was palpable throughout the night.


A heartfelt thank you extends to the 60+ event volunteers and 40+ food volunteers who generously contributed their time and efforts. Their dedication made a significant impact on gathering auction items, creating centerpieces, making food, ensuring the seamless execution of the event, and enhancing the overall beauty of the venue. Gratitude to all who played a role in making this event truly special!

15th Annual BBQ Sponsor Spotlight

Center Spotlights

Tate (Taylor) is working on washing his hands independently. With verbal prompts he can now turn on the water and throw away his paper towel! Nice Progress!

Marina is starting to socialize and interact more with her peers. One day she chose to read to April without prompts. Way to take step outside of your comfort zone Marina.

Monday & Wednesday 9:00am-1:00pm

(By appointment)

Facebook: Loveland Store

Email: store@lovelandcenter.org

157 South Havana Road Venice, FL 34292


Loveland Store Holiday Sale

The Loveland Store Holiday Sale was a festive triumph, highlighted by a visit from Holly Harper of ABC 7 Suncoast View. Holly joined participants Alexa and Shannon to craft charming flamingo snow globes. Artistic talents took center stage as Laura, Jeri, and Ben proudly displayed their creations, including a delightful cat picture and "Ho Ho Ho" painting with an accompanying poem. Shannon, spreading Loveland's holiday spirit, gifted Holly a thoughtfully adorned seashell and handmade soap. This heartwarming exchange captured the essence of the Loveland community's unique blend of artistry and camaraderie, making the Loveland Store Holiday Sale a joyous and memorable occasion for all.

Interested in attending the adult day training? Contact Krystal Heater (kheater@lovelandcenter.org)

Upcoming Events

Date: Friday, April 12, 2024 @ 7:00pm

Tickets: $10-$12

The Loveland Players Present A Year with Frog & Toad

Book & Lyrics by Willie Reale

Music by Robert Reale

Based on the book written by Arnold Lobel


Based on the classic book series by Arnold Lobel, this musical was a hit on Broadway. Waking from hibernation in the Spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding, and learn life lessons along the way. The two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make believe… all charm.

Tickets!

Loveland Center is excited to invite you to participate in the 4th Annual Ability 5K Run and 1K Fun Walk on Sunday March 24, 2024 at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda. This event is the primary fundraiser for our Port Charlotte Adult Day Training center, which provides services and support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Ability 5K Run and 1K Fun Walk is a fun-filled event that promotes community involvement and healthy lifestyle choices. Don't miss out on the opportunity to support Loveland Center and make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Click the link below to register today and join us for a day of fun, fitness, and fundraising! https://runsignup.com/race/fl/puntagorda/lovelandcenterincability5krunfamilywalk

Recaps

Thank you to everyone who attended Loveland's Groundbreaking ceremony for the Nancy Detert Residential Community, especially to our speakers Representative James Buchanan, Senator Joe Gruters, and Commissioner Ron Cutsinger. This groundbreaking is so exciting!

Loveland participants made ornaments for the Loveland Tree that was displayed at UTC and auctioned off. The winner was the owner of the Island House in Nokomis!

Loveland participants had a dress up week for the holidays. Here is a sneak peek of one of the dress up days. More to come!

AdvoCan Series

How to talk to your legislator and advocate for your loved one

January 18, 2024

Time: 6:00pm

Cost: Free


Presented by: Stephanie Henderson

Location: Virtual

Join Stephanie Henderson, a Florida Advocate, as she talks about her efforts to connect with the legislature this year and how you can help support your loved one with a disability.


Join presentation virtually via Zoom.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86831933664?pwd=N0w0ek1icmRkT0EvclVDZWhZSkdZdz09

Meeting ID: 868 3193 3664

Passcode: 821261

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