Baker Senior Center Naples Hosts “Evening for Better Tomorrows”

With the clubhouse at Royal Poinciana Golf Club adorned with regal lights and flowers, Baker Senior Center Naples held its 14th annual Evening for Better Tomorrows “Deep Purple Dreams.”

Thanks to the generous patrons and sponsors, the event raised close to $1.4 million to support critical social services and programs benefitting older adults in Collier and southern Lee counties.

Approximately 230 people attended this year’s gala which began on a somewhat somber note with a beautiful tribute to past founder and CEO Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, who passed away unexpectedly in December. The program also highlighted individual client success stories that were made possible at the non-profit organization thanks to the continued support of the community.

Lois Thome, anchor for WINK News, kicked off the festivities, noting that the evening was all about joy, vibrancy and the extraordinary sense of community that makes Baker Senior Center Naples such a special place. From those looking for social connections to those in need of mental health counseling or cognitive health services, the senior center does it all under one roof.

“This evening is a celebration of impact and momentum,” Thome said. “It is about honoring the foundation that was built and ensuring the future remains strong.”

Then, Board Chair Karen Heithoff had the honor of presenting the seventh annual Volunteer of the Year Award to Noreen Peters. Peters began volunteering nearly three years ago as a Wednesday lunch table hostess and quickly expanded her service to include respite care, tour guiding, the food pantry, and teaching crochet with a personal connection she brings to every interaction.

Following the award presentation, Marisa Luizzi, Chief Program Officer at Baker Senior Center Naples, had the privilege of carrying the organization’s message of “Looking forward.” She discussed the incredible difference the organization has made for the more than 2,000 older adults whose lives it touched over the past year. These seniors were impacted by programs and services in three pillars: the Senior Center; the Brookdale Cognitive Health Center; and Clinical Services.

“Your contributions tonight will help us honor Jackie’s legacy by making her melody more prominent in the community, creating richer harmonies for more families to live in, and envisioning bold new themes that will carry her vision to even broader audiences,” Luizzi said. “Jackie orchestrated our foundation; now, it is our privilege to build upon her masterwork and strengthen each section to ensure her symphony continues to resonate for years to come.”

A short video was then shown discussing how Baker Senior Center Naples helps older adults find more than services. They find belonging, dignity and reassurance. Families find support and peace of mind when they need it most. Those outcomes are made possible by big-hearted contributors. After the video, Thome, with the assistance of auctioneer John Terrio, led a Call for Support – A Lasting Impact to benefit the transformational and life-saving services of Baker Senior Center.

Dinner featured round tables with elaborate floral centerpieces and a four-course meal highlighted by house made potato chips and black garlic dip, roasted red and golden beets salad, an entrée duet of Creekstone prime filet in a marsala demi and pan seared Halibut with an orange Beurre Blanc, and a Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake dessert with soft ganache and crème fraiche gelato.

Following dinner, live musical entertainment was provided by The Shadows of the 60’s, featuring legendary Motown hits mixed with timeless Rock and Roll songs, including hits by super groups such as The Four Tops, Supremes and Temptations. Founder and creator Dave Revels was a member of The Drifters and is currently lead singer of The Persuasions.

Baker Senior Center Naples is the only human services agency of its kind, providing comprehensive, “one-stop shop” services addressing the emotional and social needs of all adults over age 60 in Collier and southern Lee counties. Since opening its doors in 2014, the organization has seen a surge in the depth and scope of need for comprehensive senior services in this region.

All programs and services are provided by licensed and credentialed professionals. These include Structured Dementia Respite Support; Case Management and Senior Outreach Programs; and Mental Health Counseling as well as a Food Pantry for those in need. An average of 40 different social, educational and wellness programs also are offered each week thanks to a dedicated corps of more than 300 trained and vetted volunteers.

For more information on how you can support the mission of Baker Senior Center Naples and its comprehensive programs and social services for seniors, visit www.bakerseniorcenternaples.org