FORT MYERS, Fla. — Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Southwest Florida (RMHC SWFL) has rescheduled and relocated the Storybook Ball to Saturday, May 15, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs.
“As you can imagine, COVID-19 has greatly impacted our traditional fundraising opportunities this year,” said Laura Ragain, executive director. “We have had to cancel or postpone multiple fundraising events in 2020, missing out on close to $200,000 in donations that help us do what we do best: keep families together and cared for during a child's treatment. We hope guests can see the true value of what we do through our “Lots of Love” segment and help us continue our mission.”
This signature event for RMHC SWFL will look a little different. Tables of six, instead of ten, will spread across the entire ballroom to ensure proper social distancing. Masks will be required to enter the event.
In addition, the usual 80+ silent auction item list will be substantially smaller and will focus on trips provided by AmFund, a national charity that specializes in Bucket List experiences. All AmFund trips include a generous three-year travel window with no blackout dates.
RMHC SWFL will honor New York/Naples Interior Designer Suzanne Costa at the 27th Annual Storybook Ball. In 2016, she led a team of 20 top Southwest Florida interior designers in a total renovation of the Fort Myers Ronald McDonald House in celebration of the Charities’ 20th anniversary, as a gift. Five years later and with the Ronald McDonald House expansion underway, Suzanne returned as co-chair of Project Design 2020 along with ten top designers to furnish and decorate the 4,000 square foot addition, again as a gift.
The theme will be an interpretation of “Moana,” a must-see movie focused on overcoming impossible odds, family values, and Polynesian culture.
Guests, in Black Tie optional or themed attire, will enjoy cocktails and a silent auction, followed by dinner, musical entertainment by the Robert Williamson Band, a live auction, and a special segment called “Lots of Love.”
