KathyBambergNiccoleHowardLisaGruenloh
The fifth annual event Big Impressions by Little Artists luncheon event, held on Friday, May 5, at the Hilton Naples, was attended by over 170 people. Lisa Gruenloh and Kathy Bamberg served as co-chairs. Four artists, who worked with the children that attend CCCR’s early childhood education programs to create their “masterpieces,” included Mona Lisa Johns, Kerri Meehan, Amanda Jaron, and Marcus Zotter. Rick Gallo served as live auctioneer. Entertainment was provided by violinist Joseph Osment. Artist Marcus Zotter painted live!
Silent auction items ran the gamut from the children’s artwork such as “Butterfly Art,” “Catterpillar Art,” and “Preschool Pollock,” to golf, salon and spa packages, exquisite jewelry, wine, dinner and theater options. The variety was endless! Live Auction items ranged from acrylic on canvas pieces to a Carribbean Cruise, and some outstanding artworks created by the children.
Niccole Howard, Executive Director of CCCR said, “So many from our community invested in our event and showed incredible support for our mission which is to provide high quality early childhood care, education and resources to children, families and early learning professionals in Collier County. The proceeds from the event will help to provide partial tuition assistance to those families whose children are in our care. We deeply appreciate this show of support in terms of their time, resources and many talents which translates into a brighter future for our children!”
The event was hosted by the CCCR Business 100, an exclusive group of local businesses that support CCCR’s mission and programs. Sponsors of the event included: First Florida Integrity Bank, Thrive Physical Therapy-Wellness Solutions, and SWFL Office Solutions; Media Sponsors: Soukup Strategic Solutions, Kurtz Homes Naples, Guerilla Media, Naples Daily News, and Life in Naples; Inspire a Story Sponsors: The Players Club & Spa, The Glitter Foundation, Mona Lisa Graphic Design, Family Wealth Planning Group -Raymond James, JMJ Designs, Inc., Purpose Journey, A. Jaron Fine Jewelry, expressions of art, and Family First Legal Group.
Click here to view more photos from the event.