The Event Raised Over $240,000 to Enrich the Lives of Children and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
On the evening of March 31, Ann Storck Center – a Fort Lauderdale-based private nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities – hosted its 27th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood’s Terrace Ballroom. Having garnered a reputation as one of South Florida’s most sought-after fundraisers, and back for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, the event raised over $240,000.
South Florida’s community leaders, philanthropists and influencers were among the 250 guests who raised awareness, funds and “glasses” for the Ann Storck Center, which accommodates 96 permanent residents and serves more than 300 clients daily through an array of critical care, learning and ability focused programs. All proceeds from the event support the Center’s mission, which is throughout all of its programs and services to discover ability and build independence so that individuals live happier, more independent, fulfilling lives.
The 27th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event was co-chaired by Rosalind (Roz) Perlmutter and Priti Katari. This year’s event honored Susan Renneisen, vice president of Community Affairs and Special Events at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. The family of late long-time board member Marvin Gutter was presented with the Legacy Award.
Ann Stock Center CEO Patricia (Pat) Murphy welcomed the audience to an unforgettable evening. NBC 6 Miami Anchor Sheli Muniz and Florida Panthers Arena Host Aaron “The Speaker” Shapiro emceed throughout the event and helped engage and energize the crowd. Seven-year-old Nyiema Comiskey shared heartwarming remarks about her experience with Ann Storck Center and encouraged guests to participate in “Bid For Kids” where they pledged to donate to make a positive impact in the life of a child.
Supporters enjoyed entertainment including a live DJ, stilt walkers, a saxophone player, hand-rolled cigars on-site, a champagne wall, photo opportunities and much more. The event featured a silent auction offering luxury items ranging from unique travel opportunities and elegant jewelry to memorabilia and lifestyle experiences.
Guests indulged in tastings from South Florida’s top restaurants, breweries and bakeries as well as signature cocktails by Tito’s Handmade Vodka and wine provided by Republic National Distributing Company. Restaurant partners included Anthony’s Clam House and Grill, Beach House, Bob Roth’s New River Groves, Bravo Peruvian Kitchen, Brimstone, Casa Calabria, City Oyster and Sushi Bar, Colada Cuban Café, Even Keel Fish Shack, Georgia Pig, Mimi’s Ravioli, Oceanic, Piazza Italia, Riverside Market, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Tarpon River Brewery, Tulio’s Tacos and Tequila Bar and Twisted Roots Kava Brewery.
“We are incredibly humbled by the generous support from all those who joined us for the 27th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood,” said Pat Murphy, CEO of Ann Storck Center. “We are grateful to see many of our supporters back in person while enjoying delicious dishes from some of South Florida’s top restaurants. This incredible night would not have been possible without the support of our board members, donors and restaurant partners who are committed to enriching the lives of children and adults with developmental disabilities.”
About Ann Storck Center:
Ann Storck Center (ASC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an array of critical care, learning and ability focused programs. ASC has been serving the community for more than 65 years, originally known as the Pediatric Care Center, then in 1981 becoming ASC. Today, ASC accommodates 300 children and adults on six separate sites including a school/therapy center, adult day training program, two intermediate care facilities offering specialized residential services, as well as four group homes embedded in the community offering a more independent lifestyle. For more information, visit annstorckcenter.org/, or on social media visit
facebook.com/annstorckcenter,instagram.com/annstorckcenter/, twitter.com/annstorckcenter.
