On February 13th, nearly 250 women gathered for the 9th Annual Broward Galentine’s Day Luncheon, hosted by BLU by ThriveWell and benefiting 4KIDS. Held at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach, women from across the region came together for an afternoon of inspiration, philanthropy, and purpose—celebrating love and friendship while extending compassion to vulnerable kids and families throughout South Florida.
For guests newer to the mission, the program offered a meaningful look into the heart behind 4KIDS. For almost 30 years, 4KIDS has been creating seats at the table for children and families in need—offering hope, homes, and healing across 13 Florida counties. Through prevention services, licensed foster and residential homes, and specialized trauma-informed therapy and training, children in crisis find the stability and care they deserve.
Kim Sarni of Lifestyle Media Group/South Florida Business & Wealth served as the event’s distinguished Mistress of Ceremonies, and at the center of the program was a powerful conversation between longtime child welfare leader Rochelle Holmes and adoptive mother Connie Burnett, whose story reflects the full circle impact of foster care.
Connie recounted entering foster care as a young girl after experiencing instability at home. Through multiple placements, she eventually met Janene—a caring staff member who became the steady, faithful presence she desperately needed, and whose support changed the course of her life. Years later, moved by that same compassion, Connie said “yes” to fostering alongside her husband, ultimately adopted their son through 4KIDS. Connie’s journey powerfully reflected the luncheon’s message: one courageous “yes” can transform generations.
This year’s event was made possible through generous partners, including BLU by ThriveWell, Moss Foundation, Lou Bachrodt Automotive Group, Neptune Society, Shaping Memories, Lifestyle Media Group/South Florida Business & Wealth, and several others. Their investment helped make the afternoon’s impact possible.
Thanks to the combined generosity of attendees and sponsors, Broward Galentine’s raised more than $120,000, making it the most successful year to date. These funds will support the licensing of new foster families, expand trauma-informed therapeutic services, and strengthen 4KIDS’ robust continuum of care for children, teens, and families across the community.
From heartfelt storytelling to transformative giving, this year’s Broward Galentine’s was a powerful reminder that when women gather with purpose, lives change—and how the impact of one faithful ‘yes’ reaches far beyond the room, creating immeasurably more seats at the table for kids in need.
To discover upcoming events or explore meaningful ways to get involved with 4KIDS, visit 4KIDS.us or email [email protected].
