The Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center (ECCAC) announced this year’s 28th annual signature weekend event, the Golf & Gala presented by Peggy and Jerry Swanson, raised funds that exceeded their expectations.
The Gala, held at Sandestin Hilton Golf and Beach Resort, featured dinner, live and silent auctions and an impactful talk from 22-year old Isabella Rose. She received services and therapy from ECCAC when she was just 6 years old and is now a vibrant, thriving and successful young lady. Nationally recognized auctioneer Dawn Marie Kotsonis, aka the “Gavel Girl” from California, conducted the energetic live auction.
ECCAC’s CEO, Julie Porterfield commented, “From our guests and sponsors, to our Board of Directors, volunteers and staff, I cannot even begin to express the gratitude we have for each and every one involved. We appreciate all they did to rise up together to make a significant difference in helping ECCAC restore childhoods often lost to abuse.”
As well, this year’s prestigious Zeke Bratkowski award, given in honor of the late professional football player because of his involvement and support of ECCAC, was given to Steve and Lynn Dugas and their Dugas Family Foundation. They have provided long time support with important donations to ECCAC over the years.
ECCAC’s weekend concluded with the weather clearing just on time for their golf tournament to be played at Kelly Plantation with 140 players competing in various categories.
ECCAC doesn’t house children, but they have two child-friendly centers in Walton and Okaloosa County. They not only bring all organizations together so the judicial and healing process can be easier for the children who are victims or abuse or neglect, they also provide mental health therapy for the children involved and their families at no cost.
