The 2019 Benefit Luncheon was held April 1 at Michael's On East.
By
Kayleigh Omang
| 3:48 p.m. April 1, 2019
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The 2019 Compeer Sarasota Benefit Luncheon honored two local philanthropists April 1 at Michael's On East.
Brian and Joan Wides helped spearhead the affiliation of Compeer to London, where the Wides are from and currently spend half the year.
The luncheon started with a short mingling time before the program began. The guest speaker was Alan Wolfson, a long-distance philanthropic biker. Wolfson has ridden more than 3,000 miles over 13 rides in support of nonprofits and causes he cares about, including Compeer.
The program also included short speeches from local volunteers and their matches. Compeer matches are adults and children who have a mental illness and could benefit from friendship.
To end the luncheon, the Wides went on stage to accept their honor from Chairwoman and Compeer founder Bunny Skirboll, as well as tell their Compeer story.
Honorees Joan and Brian Wides
Co-Chairwomen Gail Welch and Bunny Skirboll
Honorary Chairman Michael Ritter, Howard Tevlowitz and Speaker Alan Wolfson
One person at each table won the centerpiece.
Sandy Rifkin, Timi Wolov, Helen Glaser and Kathy Bernstein
Sam and Norma Savin and Sherry Penney
Gleenn and Compeer Program Director at Coastal Behavioral Healthcare Lynn Buehler
Compeer Sarasota honored the late Anne Hartka, Gerri Aaron and Betty Schoenbaum.
Sandi Kligman and Susi Benson-Steenbarger
The luncheon was hosted at Michael's On East.
Sam Gotoff, Ted Goldberg and Jack Siegel
Gisele Pintchuck and Nancy Wolk
Kathy Bernstein and Ilene Fox
Turbi and Paul Smiton, Janice Zarro and Nelle Miller
Nancy Gold and Sandy Kravitz
Sarah Wertheimer and Brenna Wilhm
Helen Feiner, Walter and Rosemary Mozzanti and Janet Tolbert
Jane Zuckerman and Myrna Block
Paul and his Compeer friend James tell the guests about James' video game interests.
Alan Wolfson tells his story of being a philanthropic biker.
A berry meringue dessert was served.
Karen and her match Marjorie talk about the difference their friendship has made in their lives.
Brian Wides was honored with his wife, Joan.
Joan Wides tells her personal story of her daughter's mental illness.
