Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast celebrates 20 years in paradise

In celebration of its 20-year anniversary, the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast threw a modernized take on the traditional cocktail party titled Party in Paradise Feb. 3 at Bay Preserve at Osprey, the land trust's historic headquarters.

The well-manicured, Old Florida grounds combined with an award winning sunset helped make the evening picture-perfect for some 250 guests. Through the generosity of local distiller Siesta Key Rum, signature drinks were the special, and a rum-tasting bar was set up during the event for those who cared to indulge. Most everyone had a trendy Surfing Coconut in hand as they sipped on the pure water from custom branded coconuts. A dedicated dessert hour ensured that everyone had a chance to satisfy their sweet tooth before hitting the tented dance floor where the Deleon Band entertained with covers of familiar tunes.

A fast-paced auction was held, and guests had opportunities to purchase experiences in nature which were specially curated for this event. Over $350,000 was raised in total from the efforts of Party in Paradise.

"It's our 20th anniversary year so we wanted to do something extra special — it seemed like a party was only fitting," said Sam Valentin, Conservation Foundation director of marketing and events. "We are so thankful for the deep generosity of our conservation community. Their investment in our mission helps ensure Southwest Florida remains the paradise we know and love for generations to come."

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is a nonprofit dedicated to protecting land and water in Southwest Florida, and envisions a future where the human and natural worlds flourish together. To date it has protected 19,233 acres across 57 properties.