Keith & Lorna James and Jeff DeMario
Photo by Julia Duresky/Palm Beach Photo Concierge
Dressed in “Chic Croquet Whites,” over 300 guests attended Vita Nova’s sold-out 7th Annual Mallets & Martinis
event on March 2 at the National Croquet Center. This is the nonprofit’s signature fundraising event to support homeless youth in Palm Beach County, and all proceeds go directly to Vita Nova’s Housing Program and Independent Living Services.
Guests played croquet, sipped martinis and enjoyed dinner and live music. There was also a live auction conducted by Jay Zeager, where guests had the opportunity to bid on unique experiences, items and trips. The event was emceed by Emily Pantelides and included remarks from Kate Cotner, director of community engagement at Florida Power and Light, and Jeff DeMario, CEO of Vita Nova. DeMario introduced Sophia Coffey, a Vita Nova alumna and Miss Palm Beach County. Coffey talked about her experience and what brought her to Vita Nova when she was 16.
Serving over 650 youths annually in Palm Beach County, Vita Nova is a safe bridge to independence for former foster care, LGBTQ+ and other homeless youth through supportive housing, education, employment and life skills training.
For more information, call 561-689-0035 or visit vitanovainc.org.