An annual tradition is the Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center's Sparkling Holiday Luncheon, which collects toys for the nonprofit's littlest survivors. Held at Michael's On East on Dec. 6, some 261 guests brought hundreds of unwrapped gifts, gift cards and toys. A "shopping day" is also available to families who can choose gifts for their children at no cost.
The lively bunch of men and women were filled with Hanukkah and Christmas spirit and generosity as they mingled and then enjoyed lunch. Michael's ballroom was brought to life with excitement, and everyone marveled at the extra large Christmas tree.
Event Co-chairs Melissa Silva, Allyson Galuska and Carolyn Castro, all SPARCC Auxiliary Members, spared no detail in the planning of the festivities and decorations, which included gorgeous table centerpieces that were available for purchase. Sarasota's Ray Collins provided his talents for the auction portion of the event, and items included delicious treats from Sarasota’s most notable bakers. Auxiliary members made up gift baskets that were part of the silent auction.
With a mission to provide a safe haven and promote empowerment, awareness and social change to end domestic and sexual violence, SPARCC provides confidential and free advocacy services and crisis counseling services. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, it provided counseling services to 1,399 individuals; offered a safe shelter to 138 adults, 101 children and 13 pets, and responded to 6,328 helpline crisis calls.
Joan Castellani, President and CEO Jessica Hays and Director of Development Mary Ellen Mancini
Photo by Janet Combs
Event Co-chairs Carolyn Castro, Allyson Galuska and Melissa Silva are delighted with the outpouring of support.
Photo by Janet Combs
2024 SPARCC Fashion Show co-chair Vickie Smith and Ning Tinsley
Photo by Janet Combs
Anne Murfin, Sandra Brookshire, Barbara Skentzos and Victoria Weaver mingle before lunching together.
Photo by Janet Combs
Joan DePlonty, Joan Sheridan and Anne White
Photo by Janet Combs
Simone Norton, Liz Burns and Barbara Hilder
Photo by Janet Combs
Jim and Matti Santagata with Terry Brennan-Davis and Celia Young
Photo by Janet Combs
Bonnie McIntyre, Charlie Wilson and Laurie Covert
Photo by Janet Combs
Elaine Vigneau, Joan Zahka, Pamela Fuller and Carol Buran
Photo by Janet Combs
Linda Huckenberg, Barbara Price, Candice Truex and Katherine Martucci
Photo by Janet Combs
Julie Pipes and Lola Creighton are all smiles as they grab a selfie together.
Photo by Janet Combs
Sandy Kier, Michael Ann Wells and Susan Lanier
Photo by Janet Combs
Marlene Meyer strikes a pose in front of the fabulous Michael's On East Christmas tree.
Photo by Janet Combs
Carolyn Castro, Allyson Galuska, Melissa Silva and Bonnie VanOverbeke
Photo by Janet Combs
Joan Rood, Pat Rowe and Karen Fleming
Photo by Janet Combs
SPARCC volunteer Jan Santoro reports that raffle ticket sales are going great.
Photo by Janet Combs
Kelly Dean and Dawn Anton peruse the silent auction table filled with beautiful gift baskets the SPARCC Auxiliary put together.
Photo by Janet Combs
Antonette Cunningham, Gail Neujahr and Gina Jordan
Photo by Janet Combs
Allyson Cooney and Crystal Leuty
Photo by Janet Combs
Cherie Kinerk, Patricia Santarosa, Shirley Muraca, Joan Castellani, Anne White, Mary Martino and Jenny Holland
Photo by Janet Combs
Ray Collins catches up with Penny Hill.
Photo by Janet Combs
Tracey Coakes and Nancy Lagnese
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Carol McManus, Melissa Silva and Allyson Galuska
Photo by Janet Combs
Sharon Thompson, Jennifer Zabawski and Kimberly Hopper are with First Horizon Bank Foundation, the underwriter for this event.
Photo by Janet Combs
Table 28! Katherine Pike, Pat Hanly, Kathleen Allen, Mary Phelps, Carol Herzog, Denise Chimbos, Martha Music, Sue Constable and Marlene Meyer
Photo by Janet Combs
Event auctioneer Ray Collins with SPARCC President and CEO Jessica Hays
Photo by Janet Combs
Table centerpieces were sold with proceeds support SPARCC's programs and services.
Photo by Janet Combs
The SPARCCling Holiday Luncheon is an annual tradition designed to collect toys that benefit SPARCC's smallest survivors.
