First Coast Cultural Center has set a new date for its sixth annual Beaches, A Celebration of the Arts gala to benefit educational art programs. This festive Grecian-themed fundraiser will be held 6-8 p.m. May 4 at the TPC Clubhouse in Ponte Vedra Beach.
Highlights include inspired chef specialties, live music, a silent auction, art demonstrations and an awards presentation.
“We look forward to honoring those who positively impact our community as we celebrate FCCC’s ‘Year of the Pearl,’ marking 30 years of prosperity as a nonprofit organization,” said Kimberly Sheridan, fundraising manager.
Sheridan said the gala is the center’s primary fundraising event for the year. Proceeds support a variety of educational programs, including Sound Connections Music Therapy for children with disabilities. This is offered free of charge to students in St. Johns County, including Title I schools. The gala also helps support community engagement programs for all ages.
This year, Dr. Arun Gulani of Gulani Vision Institute will be master of ceremonies for the gala, which has been a sell-out event in the past. Tickets can be purchased on FCCC’s website at https://firstcoastculturalcenter.org/beaches-a-celebration-of-the-arts-2025.
Those interested in advertising in the program or sponsoring the event can contact Sheridan at 904-280-0614, ext. 1205, or ksheridan@firstcoastculturalcenter.org. At the time of publication, sponsors include: Lazzara Family Foundation, Ron and Hilah Autrey, Gulani Vision Institute and PNC Bank.
Awards include:
The Ron and Hilah Autrey Arts Education & Advocacy Award
Awarded to an artist, arts advocate or arts educator with a track record of advancing the arts and/or educating the general public, business leaders, elected officials and students on the fundamental value of arts in the Beaches community.
Emerging Artist Award
Awarded to an emerging artist of any age who has displayed great accomplishment with their fine art or craft medium.
#Gulanism Award
Awarded to a young individual who exhibits positivity and is known for consistently sharing affirmations personally and professionally.
(The term #Gulanism derives from Dr. Gulani of Gulani Vision Institute.)
The Art of Giving Award
Awarded to a business, large or small, or an individual committed to funding and/or sustaining an art and culture program(s) within the Beaches community.
Community Impact Award (Member’s Choice Award)
Awarded to an individual, business or organization that has demonstrated a tangible and measurable development/impact of the arts and culture in the Beaches community.
The Irene Lazzara Beaches, A Celebration of the Arts Award
Awarded to an individual, business or organization dedicated to ensuring that arts and culture are ingrained into the everyday life in the Beaches community.
Nominations are accepted through March 31 at: https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/CulturalCenterAtPonteVedraBea/beaches-2024-nomination-1-1-1-1.html.
