Aging in Paradise to put on the glitz at fundraiser

The Aging in Paradise Resource Center will swing back in time for its 1920s-themed “Puttin’ on the Glitz” event Jan. 25, at Sarasota Bay Club.

The “Downton Abbey” 1920s-themed gala will include dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions.

“There is something for everyone at this event,” AIPRC Executive Director Donna Dunio said. “We wanted to do something with glitz and glam and to build something fun and exciting that everyone can enjoy.”

The event is black-tie optional, but Dunio said she expects people will dress for the theme.

“People can dress up in the glamorous 1920s theme, with tuxes and exquisite dresses,” Dunio said. “I also expect some people to come in suits and fringe dresses with pearls. I expect it to be 50-50.”

There will be 35 silent auction and eight live auction items, which include an all-inclusive trip to Cape Town, South Africa, a four-day stay in Toronto with tickets to the Toronto Film Festival, a pizza party, gourmet dining package and an all-day boat trip. There will also be a $20 raffle for a $300 surprise gift from Saks Fifth Avenue.

Sarasota Bay Club originally asked AIPRC to limit the event to 150 people but upped the number to 180 when the event sold out.

“We have raised quite a bit of money so far,” Dunio said. “And if these auctions go well, we could raise a substantial amount of money. It’s our first fundraiser and it’s gone amazingly so far. People want to come.”
Proceeds raised will benefit AIPRC, which provides programs and services that allow seniors to thrive as they age.

“The kind of programs we have are extremely varied,” Dunio said. “We have medical doctors coming out here and providing free services and exams. We have classes like yoga. We have lectures about understanding your retirement living options. This will help ensure that all of these programs can still run.”

Sponsorships for the event range from $100 to $5,000, and Dunio said the support and encouragement AIPRC has received has been overwhelming.

“People are just so into this and have really, really embraced it,” Dunio said. “I’ve never seen so many people work so hard and want to help our mission. They put their heart and soul in it. It’s just amazing.”

If you go
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25

Where: Sarasota Bay Club, 1301 N. Tamiami Trail

Cost: $100

Information: Call 383-6493