'Champions For Children'

It may have been drizzling outside, but it was warmth, sunshine and hugs all around inside when Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County honored Betty Schoenbaum and her late husband, Alex.

The attire specified “island festive,” and the 320 guests took it to heart, making for a colorful crowd, which was welcomed at the door by a B&GC youth. Honorary Chairman Sam Shapiro made the presentation to his good friend, Betty Schoenbaum, who said: “No one would love this more than Alex Schoenbaum, because he loved the Boys & Girls Clubs. There is no better place for a child to learn.” 

The program provided much evidence of that with speakers including Kevin Stalker, a Duquesne University Student and last year’s Regional Youth of the Year, and Whitney Stewart, an alumna of the Gene Matthews Boys & Girls Club in North Port and the National Boys & Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year, whom is selected from more than 4 million youths across the country. She talked about mentoring kids at her club, and many of those kids came on stage to show their appreciation — with hugs, of course. Where there’s Betty Schoenbaum, there are always hugs. And the more the merrier.

The event exceeded its fundraising objectives thanks to guests who enthusiastically supported the silent and live auctions. They also bought $10 gift bags containing a chance to win $1,000. Gretchen Scott, who provided the boys and girls with their outfits, donated the money and the bags. The menu by Chef Paul Mattison was “island” from the first bite of scallop ceviche to the dessert bombe featuring coconut and passion fruit.

— Molly Schechter