Broward Partnership, the largest comprehensive homeless services provider in Broward County, hosted its highly anticipated annual Salute to Leadership: “Golden Hour Gala” on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The evening raised over $460,000 to advance the mission of Broward Partnership and brought together more than 300 community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates.
Set during the “Golden Hour,” the evening invited guests to reflect on the weight of time and the fleeting moments that shape a life, underscoring that every hour matters for those without shelter, safety, or stability. The event featured a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, and an inspiring program highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of Broward Partnership and the lives it has transformed.
Hatzel Vela, politics reporter for NBC-6 South Florida, served as the evening’s emcee. The night opened with a powerful vocal and dance performance of “A Million Dreams,” accompanied by images of Broward Partnership clients on screen for a moving tribute to the hopes and possibilities that the organization works every day to help restore. Vela set the tone, reflecting on the song’s message of possibility and its deep resonance for individuals experiencing homelessness.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the James J. Blosser Community Trusteeship Award to Senator Nan Rich, Broward County Commissioner, in recognition of her extraordinary commitment to advancing the fight against homelessness in Broward County. Senator Rich played an instrumental role in helping establish Broward County’s Housing Trust Fund and in supporting Broward Partnership’s first affordable housing development, Seven on Seventh. The award was presented by Broward Partnership Board Member Dodie Keith-Lazowick.
Tom Ruthardt, CEO of Broward Partnership, delivered a heartfelt appeal that brought the organization’s mission to life through the personal stories of clients including Minoushe, a mother who fled domestic violence and is rebuilding a safe home for her children; Evens, a man who lost his marriage, his job, and his voice to illness and is now expressing himself through poetry; and Laura, a recent widow who moved from the shelter into a home of her own just days before the gala. Ruthardt also recognized the dedicated case managers, therapists, nurses, and employment specialists whose daily work makes transformation possible.
The celebration was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor, Leo Goodwin Foundation. Visionary Sponsors included BMW of Pembroke Pines and JM Family Enterprises. Steward Sponsors included GL Homes, Memorial Healthcare System, and Rick Case Automotive Group. Additional sponsors included Holman, Rotary Club of Broward, UKG, KEITH, ABA Centers, Sally Goldman Foundation, Concrete Reinforcing Products, Publix Charities, Elite Staging, Circle of Friends Foundation, and Ali & Ron Bergeron.
