A Special Night

JARC Florida, a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization that provides programs and services to educate and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is hosting its 33rd Annual Gala Dinner Dance, which is themed May JARC's Force Be With You.

The event will take place on March 3 at Boca West Country Club in Boca Raton, featuring cocktails, dinner and dancing.

Elizabeth Levine and Debbie Weisman will once again serve as gala chairs. Michael Williams, anchor at WPTV News in West Palm Beach, will act as the master of ceremonies for the eighth year alongside emcee and entertainer Sam Simon. Silent and live auctions will take place, co-chaired by Ellen Gechter and Debbie Quint.

This year will also recognize Debra C. Hallow, CEO of JARC FL, for her 25 years of service.

"The JARC Gala Dinner Dance is always a celebration of our clients, their families, the staff, our generous donors and volunteers, and those partners that make it all possible," says Hallow. "Like past years, our clients will be a part of the event - enjoying the festivities as well as performing - which, of course, makes it all the more special."

The event will raise money to support JARC's programs and activities designed specifically for the organization's clients. Funds will benefit scholarships and financial aid as well as improve and sustain JARC's many programs, such as its renowned Community Works Program. Last year's event raised more than $600,000 for the organization; the goal is to surpass that number this year.

The Boca Raton Observer is the event's exclusive magazine sponsor. O For more information, visit jarcfl.org/events2/gala.