What a Night! Thank You for Filling It with Love. First Roots was nothing short of unforgettable. It was one of those evenings where everything clicked, the kind you wish you could bottle up and keep.

The glow of the evening sky, the hum of conversation, and the laughter echoing across the space all created something truly special. But what made the night so meaningful was you, our incredible community that shows up with generosity, joy, and so much heart.

Whether you were with us in person or cheering us on from afar, thank you. Your support reaches far beyond a single evening; it touches our classrooms, our teachers, and most importantly, our children.

We are deeply grateful to First Presbyterian Church, our home for nearly 80 years. Their unwavering support continues to nurture a place where children grow strong in love, curiosity, and connection.

A very special thank you to the Deme Family for generously serving as our club sponsors at the Sarasota Yacht Club, making it possible for us to host this year’s event in such a beautiful setting. Your kindness and support helped create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening, and we are deeply grateful.

To our sponsors, thank you for believing in this mission and helping bring this night to life. Your generosity creates opportunities, strengthens our foundation, and allows us to continue pouring into the lives of the families we serve.

A very special thank you to the creative hearts behind the magic of the evening, Kyla Jendelund and Edition Fourteen Weddings & Events, for designing such a beautiful and memorable experience. The stunning florals that brought our theme to life were thoughtfully created by Jennifer Herke, Kaitlin Kandefer, and Florals by Jenn, each arrangement adding so much beauty and warmth to the night.

Behind the scenes, so much love and effort made everything run seamlessly. Thank you to Lise Hutton for the incredible work on the silent auction, and to Claudia Bridgham for the beautiful signage and imagery that made it all shine. And to our amazing class basket team, led by Tori Harless, your creativity and dedication brought so much excitement and joy to the event.

To the team behind it all, you brought beauty, creativity, and intention to every detail. Events like this don’t just happen, and we are so thankful for the time, care, and heart you gave so freely.

And our Mini Masterpieces—what a joy! Seeing our students create with such pride and excitement was a reminder of the magic of childhood. Thank you to everyone who opened their hearts (and homes) to these special pieces of art. Each one now carries a story, a memory, and a little piece of First Roots.

To our teachers — your dedication and love are the heartbeat of this school. Because of you, children walk through our doors each day feeling safe, known, and inspired.

And to our families, thank you for trusting us with your children. It is a privilege to walk alongside you, to celebrate milestones big and small, and to be part of your village. The relationships formed here are something truly special, and we hope they stay with you for years to come.

They say that children learn what they live, and what they saw through this event was generosity in action, kindness, connection, and a community that cares deeply for one another.

Here’s to strong roots, beautiful growth, and a community that continues to flourish together.

With love and gratitude,

Clare and Lydia