‘Guadalupe Galaxy’ fundraising gala to offer in-person, virtual options

Guadalupe Center’s annual fundraising gala on Jan. 20 will offer in-person and virtual attendance options as the nonprofit continues raising awareness and support for its life-changing education programs.

“Guadalupe Galaxy: Constellations of Hope” will be held Thursday, Jan. 20 at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, 2600 Tiburon Drive in Naples. The fundraising gala will feature cocktails, dinner, heartwarming student performances and speakers, galaxy-inspired décor, the return of a live auction, out-of-this-world entertainment and the popular Jump Up for Education, a lively interactive call to action that allows attendees to make donations and jump up to show their support for Guadalupe Center.

The presenting sponsor for Guadalupe Galaxy is Moorings Park Grande Lake by London Bay Development Group. Event chairs are Bev Cherry and Debbie Toler.

In 2021, Guadalupe Center’s Circtacular gala was an entirely virtual, circus-themed extravaganza and raised $1 million. That event featured special effects, augmented reality and comedic performances, as well as compelling videos and heartfelt testimonials to demonstrate the impact of fundraising on the lives of students and families in Immokalee.

“Circtacular proved that a virtual event can be just as successful as an in-person event if executed with excellence,” said Guadalupe Center President Dawn Montecalvo. “Guadalupe Galaxy will be a hybrid event that allows supporters who feel comfortable in a group setting to enjoy a traditional gala, while allowing those who prefer smaller settings to participate remotely yet still make a difference in the lives of students we serve by providing a high-quality education that can create endless possibilities.”

Proceeds from Guadalupe Galaxy will support the nationally accredited Early Childhood Education Program, After-school Tutoring & Summer Enrichment Program and college-preparatory Tutor Corps Program. Guadalupe Center’s mission is breaking the cycle of poverty through education for the children of Immokalee.

Multiple patron levels are available. In-person ticket opportunities include:
• Diamond Patron ($25,000): Includes 20 gala tickets and 6 post-event Patron Party tickets
• Platinum Patron ($10,000): Includes 10 gala tickets and 4 post-event Patron Party tickets
• Gold Patron ($5,000): Includes 6 gala tickets and 2 post-event Patron Party tickets
• Silver Patron ($3,000): Includes 2 gala tickets and 2 post-event Patron Party tickets
• Bronze Patron ($1,000): Includes 1 gala ticket and 1 post-event Patron Party ticket
• Patron ($500): Includes 1 gala ticket

Additionally, five patron levels are available for the virtual gala and include a link to the livestream: Platinum Patron ($10,000), Gold Patron ($5,000), Silver Patron ($3,000), Bronze Patron ($1,000) and Patron ($500). Virtual patrons can experience real-time segments, including a passionate speech from a Tutor Corps student and the Jump Up for Education.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit GuadalupeCenter.org/Guadalupe-Galaxy or contact Tammy Richelieu at 239-963-3668 or TRichelieu@GuadalupeCenter.org.

About Guadalupe Center
Guadalupe Center is a purpose-driven, nonprofit organization with proven results in creating endless possibilities for the students of Immokalee through education and fostering personal and academic success that leads to economic independence. With a focus on breaking the cycle of poverty through education, Guadalupe Center is proud of the children’s accomplishments: 95% meet or exceed kindergarten readiness measures, 100% of Tutor Corps high school seniors graduate high school and are accepted into college, and more than 94% graduate with a post-secondary degree.