PALM BEACH, FL — On December 2, 2025, supporters, friends, and community leaders gathered for Adopt-A-Family of the Palm Beaches, Inc.’s (AAF) 41st Annual Tree Lighting Celebration. The cherished holiday tradition—also AAF’s largest annual fundraiser—raised more than $1.2 million to assist families experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The event was chaired by longtime supporter and board officer Heather B. Ferguson, with Lisa Swift serving as honorary chair.
Pictured (left to right): Jessica Swift, Victoria Racanati Feinberg
This year’s celebration marked a special moment in AAF’s fifth decade of service, uniting generations of advocates dedicated to ending and preventing family homelessness. Joining alongside the Tree Lighting Committee was the Young Friends Committee, a dynamic group of emerging ambassadors co-chaired by Jessica Swift and Victoria Racanati Feinberg, who brought newfound support to the evening.
Guests cheered with joy at the lighting of the Angel Tree, a heartfelt tribute to the loyal donors and partners whose generosity sustains hundreds of local families each year. In addition, guests enjoyed a vibrant program featuring performances by The King’s Academy Choir, an expansive silent auction, a lush orchid display, an “everyone wins” wine pull, a three-course gourmet dinner, and a spirited live auction led by Neil Saffer.
A powerful testimonial from current client Antoine Cowart became the emotional centerpiece of the evening. When he finished, the audience rose in a unanimous standing ovation. “We are honored and proud to be here tonight with each and every person,” said Matt Constantine, CEO of Adopt-A-Family. “This celebration represents Adopt-A-Family’s past, present, and future. Every person in this room has played a part in helping us provide housing and services to 782 families in need last year. I’m proud to share that 86% of families who graduated from our programs last year remain stably housed today. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust as we work to uplift those in our community who need it most.”
Funds raised during the event directly aid programs that stabilize families in crisis and empower them to achieve long-term self-sufficiency. Every dollar contributes to advancing AAF’s mission at a time when the need for housing stability across Palm Beach County remains critical.
To learn more about Adopt-A-Family’s programs or ways to get involved, visit www.aafpbc.org or contact Sydney Parmet at sparmet@aafpbc.org or (561) 444-0399.
