News Archive - Page 17 of 40 - The Wellington Edit

National Poetry Month Youth Summit Receives Three Proclamations and Awards Scholarships, Technology, and More to Local Youth

Riviera Beach, FL – April 25, 2026 The 4th Annual National Poetry Month Youth Summit, held at the Riviera Beach Marina Village, brought together hundreds of students, families, educators, and community leaders for a powerful day of creativity, expression, and opportunity.

This year’s Summit reached a new milestone of recognition and impact, receiving three official proclamations honoring the work and mission of the event:

From the City of Riviera Beach, presented by Mayor Douglas Lawson
From Palm Beach County, presented by Commissioner Bobby Powell
From the State of Florida, presented by Senator Mack Bernard

These proclamations recognize the Summit’s commitment to advancing youth literacy, mental health, and creative expression through spoken word poetry and community engagement.

The event also delivered meaningful, tangible impact to participating students. During the Summit:

Three college scholarships were awarded to outstanding youth poets
Students received iPads, laptops, and gift cards, equipping them with tools to support their education and future goals
Dozens of young voices took the stage, sharing powerful stories and competing in a high-energy poetry competition

Founded by Desiree Karnis Reavis, the National Poetry Month Youth Summit continues to serve as a safe and empowering platform for young people to find their voice, build confidence, and connect with community resources.

“This is bigger than poetry,” said Reavis. “This is about giving young people a platform to be seen, heard, and supported not just for who they are today, but for who they’re becoming.”

With the support of dedicated sponsors, partners, facilitators, and volunteers, the Summit continues to grow as a cornerstone event in Palm Beach County bridging art, education, and opportunity.

“Taste of Italy” Four-Course Dinner at Carmine’s Raises $51,500 for Pace Palm Beach

Monies raised support girl-centered education, counseling, and resources

Palm Beach Gardens, FL (April 27, 2026) – 160 attendees enjoyed a curated 4-course Italian dinner at Carmine’s La Trattoria, located at 2401 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, on Wednesday, April 22, to support Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach. The event featured live music, a silent auction, specially curated Italian dishes perfectly paired with fine wines and dessert, and brought people together for a great mission. Pace believes that ‘Every Girl Deserves’ a future filled with opportunities, respect, and agency to pursue her dreams.

*Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach, with Javid Khan, Board Member of Pace Palm Beach*

The girls and young women Pace supports receive academic instruction and work closely with counselors and therapists trained in girl-centered and trauma-based therapy. They also receive life coaching to learn basic life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and how to land their first job. These resources are available to girls at no cost.

“I appreciate everyone who came to Taste of Italy and helped us to support our girls who overcome tremendous obstacles daily,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “Thank you to our event co-chairs Pamela Pangas Cope and Sean Casey, who were amazing and helped us host such an incredible event, as well as to our sponsors, who help our programming expand and provide more girls with the social and academic services needed to thrive.”

Since its founding in 1985, Pace Palm Beach has seen transformational improvements in girls, both personally and professionally. To date, over 3,000 girls in Palm Beach County have been positively impacted.

Pace Center for Girls, Palm Beach – Board From left to right – Mindy Hanken, Rachael Bonlarron, Esther Uria LaBovick, Blanca Lopez Mackrey, Sherry Thompson, Javid Khan, Pamela Pangas Cope, Aisha Ali, Ana Rodriguez, and Shantel Accilien

Carmine’s La Trattoria was voted Best Italian Restaurant in Palm Beach Post “Best of the Best” Community Choice Awards for 2019, Reader’s Choice Awards, Boca Life Magazine, and OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award, Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2022. The community is encouraged to share their support while enjoying a flavorful evening. Co-chairs were Pamela Pangas Cope and Sean Casey. Sponsors include Everyday Solutions, Inc., Nextera Energy Resources, Treecyle Land Clearing, Inc., Regions, Centerline, Inc., Khanna Connections, Chase, FPL, LaBovick Law Group, PB Post, El Bodegon, Corporate Air, LocaliQ, HCA Florida Healthcare, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley Attorneys at Law, Johnson-Davis Inc., and Third Federal Savings & Loan.

To learn more about how Pace is finding the great in every girl, visit www.pacecenter.org.

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About Pace Center for Girls

Pace provides free year-round middle and high school academics, case management, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and deals with past trauma and builds upon girls’ individual strengths. Dedicated to meeting the social, emotional, and educational needs of girls, Pace has a successful and proven program model that has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. For more information on Pace Center for Girls, visit www.pacecenter.org.

Wellington Bay Celebrates the 100th Birthday of Resident Alberta “Bert” Goldberg

Alberta "Bert" Goldberg celebrates her 100th birthday with her husband Bob, friends and well-wishers.

The community at Lisbet at Wellington Bay gathered recently to honor resident Alberta “Bert” Goldberg on the momentous occasion of her 100th birthday.

The celebration brought together friends, family, and local officials to recognize a century of vibrant life and experiences.

The festivities were marked by a special visit from the Wellington Council and Village of Wellington staff. In a highlight of the event, Vice Mayor Maria S. Antuña presented Bert with an official proclamation, formally recognizing her inspiring centennial milestone.

Born in Clifton, New Jersey, Bert’s life has been defined by adventure and a deep appreciation for culture. Her journey has taken her from traveling by boat to Venezuela as a child to exploring the Antarctic and immersing herself in the cultures of Hong Kong and Singapore. A woman of many talents, she has spent her years oil painting, sewing her own clothes, and enjoying everything from jazz music to French cuisine.

Bert continues to age with grace in place alongside her husband, Bob, who celebrated his own 100th birthday last summer. The couple continues to share a life filled with humor and Jewish family traditions.

“It is an honor to celebrate Bert and the incredible legacy she represents,” said Gita Anderson, Executive Director of Lisbet at Wellington Bay. “Her adventurous spirit and warmth bring so much joy to our community. Seeing Bert and Bob reach these remarkable milestones together is a beautiful testament to a life well-lived, and we are thrilled to host such a wonderful celebration for her.”

When asked for her secret to navigating difficult times over the last century, Bert offered simple advice: “Look for that chocolate!”.

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About Wellington Bay

Wellington Bay is a luxury rental retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, respite care, and advanced memory care at the Lisbet Health Center, located onsite in Wellington, Florida. The community is dedicated to supporting active aging and vibrant living, offering something for everyone.

Named one of the “Best Places to Retire” by Money Magazine, Wellington boasts a thriving equestrian community, premier golf courses, and scenic neighborhoods.

Wellington Bay is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a division of Liberty Healthcare Management specializing in senior living communities. To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and its communities, visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.

Ibis Charities Foundation Awards $15,000 “Safe Start” Grant to Safe Kids Palm Beach County

Safe Kids PBC, a program of Community Partners of South Florida, is proud to announce it has received a generous $15,000 grant from the Ibis Charities Foundation.

Amy Brand (CPSFL), Robert Snedeker (Ibis Charities) and Kathy Wall (CPSFL)

The grant, awarded through the “Safe Start” initiative, will provide critical resources and safety education to low-income families preparing to welcome new infants into their homes.

The check presentation took place during a breakfast at The Club at Ibis. President of the Ibis Charities Foundation John Harris announced the award and committee member Robert Snedeker presented the check to Safe Kids PBC.

The “Safe Start” Grant is designed to alleviate the financial and logistical burdens facing families with limited resources. Through this funding, Safe Kids PBC will provide “All-In-One” car seats that accommodate children from birth through the seat belt phase (5 lbs. to 100 lbs.), ensuring long-term passenger safety.

Additionally, the program addresses the critical need for safe sleep environments by providing pack-n-plays for families who lack a dedicated crib, alongside rigorous education on “ABC” sleep (Alone, on their Back, in a Crib).

“We are incredibly grateful to the Ibis Charities Foundation for their investment in the safety of our community’s youngest residents,” said Kathy Wall, Director of Safe Kids PBC. “This $15,000 grant allows us to bridge the gap for families who want to do everything right but may lack the financial means to do so. By providing car seats, safe sleep spaces, and home safety kits, we are making sure parents have peace of mind and that every child has a safe start.”

The grant also extends its impact to older siblings in the home. Safe Kids PBC will distribute home safety kits that include electric plug covers, various cabinet and drawer locks, and door alarms.

These kits are accompanied by vital education on keeping poisons, cleaning supplies, and medications “Out of Sight and Out of Reach” to prevent accidental ingestions and injuries among toddlers.

For more information about Safe Kids PBC, please visit www.cpsfl.org.

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About Community Partners of South Florida

Community Partners of South Florida is a $15 million comprehensive community development nonprofit agency headquartered in Riviera Beach that provides services to families facing social, emotional, and financial adversity. By using a unique, breakthrough approach integrating housing and financial empowerment, child and family mental health, and community services, Community Partners of South Florida creates self-sustaining families and communities and serves as a driver for growing its local economy. For more information about Community Partners of South Florida, visit www.cpsfl.org. Community Partners of South Florida is a proud chartered affiliate of NeighborWorks America, a national, nonpartisan nonprofit striving to make every community a place of opportunity.

For more information, please contact: Jaime Elder at jaime@khannaconnections.com

Taste of Wellington: A Night To Savor

On Friday, April 24, The Village of Wellington celebrated the return of Taste of Wellington at the Town Center Promenade. Nearly 1,000 attendees gathered to sample food from 42 participating restaurants. The variety of restaurants included popular franchises and hidden gems run by local families. This culinary event proved to be a resounding success as the community united for an evening filled with delicious food, refreshing beverages, live music, and entertainment, along with a breathtaking waterfront view.

Taste of Wellington made its debut last year to give residents of Wellington, as well as the greater Palm Beach County area, the opportunity to enjoy dishes from the region’s most beloved restaurants. Attendees were able to explore new restaurants while enjoying their longtime favorites in one place. The event also promoted local restaurants by allowing them to share their most popular dishes and personally interact with their loyal customers and potential new customers. The evening was filled with pure bliss as the community came together over Wellington’s finest dishes.

As guests arrived, they were thrilled to begin their food tasting journey. Upon check-in, each guest received a customized tote bag with a booklet listing all participating restaurants, a tumbler, and complementary drink tickets inside. Guests utilized the booklet to mark each spot they sampled food from. This encouraged guests to visit each tent and try all the food the restaurants had to offer. Each restaurant had their own tent set up along the walkway, as they proudly served their most popular dishes.

Throughout the evening, guests strolled along the promenade as they filled their palette with a variety of flavors from sweet, savory, spicy, and more. Everyone in attendance happily engaged with one another, as restaurant owners and staff presented their menus and specialties. Tesla-sponsored water stations were present to ensure guests kept cool and stayed hydrated. The evening made the perfect family outing as there were activities for guests of all ages. Kids were able to enjoy bounce houses, facepainting, and games. Henna artists showcased their intricate designs to children and adults. The live music created a vibrant atmosphere as guests sang and danced to their favorite songs.

Palm Beach County residents Jane and Gunars Mansons shared the profound impact events like Taste of Wellington have on the community. “There is nothing like the community getting together—for all ages—to have your family in such a wholesome environment, to enjoy a night out and feel safe. Just the atmosphere—I think Wellington does the best job,” Jane Mansons said. “Community is everything, and I think more communities around us need to do what Wellington does for us.”

Taste of Wellington made a name for itself as one of the village’s most popular community events for the Spring. The impressive selection of food, live entertainment, and the scenic waterfront view set the tone for a perfect evening. What made the event more meaningful for most attendees was seeing the community come together for a shared purpose.

“It brings everybody together and it provides a safe space,” residents Giavanna and Rachel said. “When you think of this [Taste of Wellington], you’re thinking of having the community all together and having a good time.”

Guests explored many dining options, while potentially discovering their new favorite restaurant along the way. The night ended with a raffle, where one lucky winner took home the grand prize: a Cooper’s Cares Magnum Package, presented by Cooper’s Hawk. The bundle included a bottle of wine, complimentary wine tasting for two, and a 3-month gift membership to Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club.

Taste of Wellington was not only a celebration of culinary perfection, but it was also a celebration of culture and community pride. It created a shared space for community members to connect, as it fostered a welcoming and wholesome environment.

Participating Restaurants

The participating restaurant included: Agliolio, Anna Bakes, Bolay, Britts Bake Shop, Carmela Coffee, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Chamoy Ice Cream, Cheese Lover’s Kitchen, Chick-fil-A, Chicken Salad Chick, Christy’s Bakery, Cooper’s Hawk, CR Chicks, Cumbres Coffee, Domenic’s & Vinnie’s of Palm Beach, Dunkin, El Bodegon, Field of Greens, Foxtail Coffee, Fresh Pita Club, Georgia Mae’s, Happy Day Creations, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Lemongrass, Lewis Prime, Maple Street Biscuit Company, Olive Garden, PDQ, Pei Wei, Penalty Box, Piece of Pizza, Rita’s, Riptide Kava, She Jay’s, Skillets, Smoothie King, Spiro’s Taverna, Starbucks, The Poke Company, Tijuana Flats, Trader Joe’s, and Vicky Bakery.

Sponsors

Taste of Wellington was proudly sponsored by: Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, AT&T, Wellington Florist, Safety Council of Palm Beach Inc., Guardians Credit Union, Tesla, and Wellington Regional Medical Center

Empowering Women Founders: The Entreprenista Network in Wellington

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL, April 15, 2026 — The Entreprenista League, a premier membership community for ambitious women entrepreneurs, announces the return of its highly anticipated Founders Weekend — a sold out transformative three-day retreat designed to help women entrepreneurs scale their businesses, deepen meaningful connections, and step into their next level of leadership. The event will take place April 30-May 3rd at the iconic PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and brings together hundreds of women founders from across the United States and Canada for an unforgettable in-person experience. This year’s gathering is poised to be its biggest yet and provides a compelling story of women-led entrepreneurial power converging in South Florida.

From curated panels and intimate mastermind sessions to brand marketplace activations and evening celebrations, every element of Founders Weekend is purposely built for transformation. Attendees will hear from an impressive lineup of accomplished women entrepreneurs and business luminaries who have built category-defining companies, including Amanda Goetz, 2x founder, CMO of Alix Earle’s Reale Actives, Tisha Thompson, founder of LYS Beauty; Anne Mahlum, founder of [solidcore] and Back on My Feet, who built and exited her fitness empire for nearly $100 million; and Bonny Ghosh, Editor of Inc.

Brand partners including Justworks, BILL, Glamsquad, LolaVie and IT Cosmetics will bring interactive activations to the event’s marketplace, offering attendees exclusive access and experiences.

Rounding out the experience, attendees will also be invited to restore and recharge through intentional wellness programming, from guided walks and meditation to an energizing Pvolve class, designed to nourish the whole founder.

“Founders Weekend is the event our community tells us changed their business, and their life,” said Stephanie Cartin, Co-Founder of Entreprenista Media. “There is something truly powerful that happens when you put hundreds of driven, generous, visionary women in the same room. We’ve watched partnerships form, deals close, and lifelong friendships begin over a single weekend. We build this experience from the ground up for exactly that kind of magic, and we can’t wait to welcome this year’s attendees.” said Courtney Spritzer, Co-Founder of Entreprenista.

Follow along and join the conversation on Instagram at @entreprenistas and visit www.entreprenista.com/foundersweekend for full details and programming updates.

Wellington Mother’s Day Guide: Champagne Brunches & Luxury Celebrations

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – Celebrate the special lady in your life with an unforgettable Mother’s Day celebration at Hilton West Palm Beach featuring live music and delicious dining at Galley.
Treat Mom to a lavish brunch buffet featuring all her favorites, from an indulgent seafood bar to fresh pasta and made-to-order poke. Enjoy a live-fire parrilla grill, artisan charcuterie and cheeses, rustic pizzas and seasonal salads, and swoon-worthy desserts.

To make the day even more memorable, Moms will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of champagne and flowers, along with a professional family photo to cherish as a lasting keepsake.

Mexica Tequila will also be on-site with a unique salt-tasting pop-up experience. After brunch, continue the celebration with a fun-filled family day by the pool.

Non-hotel guests may purchase a ResortPass for day access here.

Brunch seating is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pricing: $115 per adult; $49 per child (ages 5-12); Free for children 4 and under.

For reservations, click here.

Clean Beauty Guide: Top Plant-Based & Sustainable Skincare Brands in Palm Beach

Earth Day was never meant to be just a single day devoted to sustainability. At its core, the movement is about creating long-term habits and small decisions made daily that collectively shape a more thoughtful, environmentally conscious way of living.

From mindful skincare to innovative packaging and wellness communities rooted in intentional living, South Florida is home to a growing number of businesses embracing that philosophy. In honor of Earth Day, The Wellington Edit highlights four women-owned businesses that are helping turn eco-friendly choices into an everyday lifestyle.

1. POUCH

Founded by Miami-based entrepreneur Annie Kurnick, POUCH is a wellness brand bringing IV-inspired hydration formulas into a convenient, ready-to-drink format designed for modern, active lifestyles.

The concept grew out of Kurnick’s own experience balancing travel, work, and fitness. After frequently relying on IV hydration treatments for energy and recovery, she began exploring ways to deliver similar nutritional support in a portable format suitable for daily use.

“I founded POUCH because I wanted a practical, everyday way to access advanced nutrition while managing a busy, active life,” Kurnick says. “There was nothing on the market that truly captured the complexity and intentionality of IV therapy in a format that felt portable and realistic for daily use.”

Since launching earlier this year, the brand has begun building a presence within Florida’s growing wellness and sports communities through activations at local fitness spaces such as Wellist Week, Reserve Padel Club, and Traphouse Gym. Early traction has also emerged among athletes, including tennis player Magda Linette.

Sustainability has been a key consideration in the brand’s development. POUCH uses packaging designed to incorporate 50% post-consumer recycled material, and the lightweight pouch format was intentionally selected to help reduce shipping impact and waste.

“POUCH is about building a brand that reflects how we want to live—active, intentional, and mindful of our impact,” Kurnick says.

Photo Credit: Into The Gloss//Tammy Fender — Tammy Fender, Founder of Tammy Fender Holistic Skincare

2. Tammy Fender Holistic Skincare

In West Palm Beach, luxury skincare meets holistic wellness at Tammy Fender Holistic Skincare, a spa and product line founded by renowned aesthetician Tammy Fender.

Since opening her spa in 2003, Fender has built a loyal following for treatments and skincare products rooted in plant-based ingredients and holistic philosophy. Her approach focuses on nurturing the skin through botanicals, essential oils, and natural formulations designed to restore balance and vitality.

The West Palm Beach spa serves as both a treatment destination and the creative center for the brand’s skincare line. Each product reflects Fender’s philosophy that healthy skin is closely connected to overall wellbeing, emphasizing ingredient transparency and nature-derived formulations.

In an era where clean beauty is increasingly important to consumers, the brand remains a notable example of how luxury skincare and environmental mindfulness can exist side by side.

Photo Credit: Modern Luxury/Sana Skin Studio — Valentina Hernández Botero, Founder of Sana Skin Studio

3. Sana Skin Studio

As consumers become more conscious of what goes into their skincare routines, studios like Sana Skin Studio are helping lead the shift toward clean beauty.

The studio focuses on customized facial treatments and skincare solutions that prioritize carefully selected ingredients and thoughtful formulations. Clean skincare emphasizes minimizing unnecessary additives while supporting long-term skin health through gentle, results-driven treatments.

Beyond skincare itself, studios like Sana reflect a broader wellness movement—one that values transparency, intentional routines, and products designed with both personal health and environmental awareness in mind.

Photo Credit: Moksha Yoga Studio — Cora Rosen, Founder of Moksha Yoga Studio

4. Moksha Yoga Studio

Wellness spaces often play an important role in promoting mindful living, and Moksha Yoga Studio offers a community environment centered on movement, mindfulness, and balance.

Yoga practices naturally align with many sustainability values, encouraging individuals to slow down, live intentionally, and develop a deeper awareness of their relationship with the world around them.

Through classes that combine movement, breathwork, and meditation, Moksha Yoga Studio provides a space where physical wellbeing and mindfulness intersect—reminding students that caring for themselves and caring for the planet often begin with the same principle: living with intention.

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Earth Day may serve as a yearly reminder to care for the planet, but the real impact comes from everyday choices—what we buy, where we shop, and how we support businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Across South Florida, entrepreneurs, wellness leaders, and innovators are finding ways to integrate environmentally conscious practices into industries ranging from food and beverage to skincare and fitness. Together, these efforts help transform sustainability from a once-a-year conversation into a lifestyle that lasts well beyond April 22.

Wellington Surgeons Kyle Eldredge, DO, and Michael Shockley, MD, Attend Intuitive Connect 2026 to Harness Next-Generation Robotic Technology

Dr. Thomas Blake and Dr. Michael Shockley

Kyle Eldredge, DO, and Michael Shockley, MD from Advanced Surgical Physicians recently attended Intuitive Connect 2026 in Austin, Texas.

Held from April 17–19, this premier global forum gathered the world’s leading surgeons to explore the future of minimally invasive surgery and the official integration of the da Vinci 5 (dV5) robotic surgical system.

The theme of this year’s conference, “Connect to Purpose,” focused on the expanding ecosystem of AI, digital analytics, and enhanced surgical precision.

For Dr. Shockley, the conference provided intensive insight into how these advancements directly translate to improved outcomes for bariatric patients in South Florida. The dV5’s smart instrumentation, which captures over 1,000 data points per second, and its integrated digital ecosystem are designed to streamline OR workflows and increase surgeon autonomy.

“Attending Intuitive Connect 2026 allows us to stay at the absolute forefront of surgical evolution,” said Dr. Shockley. “In the realm of bariatric surgery, the precision offered by robotic platforms is a game-changer. Whether we are performing a gastric bypass, which requires incredibly precise stapling and reconstruction of the stomach and intestines or a sleeve gastrectomy, the dV5 enhances our ability to operate with accuracy.”

Throughout the three-day event, Dr. Eldredge and Dr. Shockley participated in technical presentations and training simulations via SimNow, while exploring the My Intuitive app for advanced surgical analytics.

While the dV5 is expanding into cardiac and hepatobiliary specialties, its impact on acute care and weight-loss surgery remains a primary focus for the Wellington-based practice.

By integrating the lessons and technological breakthroughs from Intuitive Connect 2026, Advanced Surgical Physicians continues to provide the Wellington community with access to world-class, minimally invasive surgical options that prioritize faster recovery times and superior clinical results.

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About Advanced Surgical Physicians:

Advanced Surgical Physicians provides expert breast, hernia, gallbladder, colorectal, bariatric and general surgical care. Experience what makes the practice different: an in-house phone line and friendly voice to take your call, self-scheduling available for your convenience, insurance transparency, minimally-invasive options designed with your healing in mind, and physician leaders that hold honorable appointments in their specialty. Advanced Surgical Physicians offers large institute options delivered with a small-town feel. Learn more at www.toplinemd.com/advanced-surgical-physicians or call us at (561) 333-1335.

PBSO Deputy Michael Mahoney Honored as “Volunteer of the Year” by United Way of Palm Beach County

Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) is proud to announce that Deputy Michael “Mike” Mahoney has been awarded the prestigious Impact Award – Volunteer of the Year (Mentor) by the United Way of Palm Beach County.

The award was presented on April 14, 2026, during the “United, We Thrive” IMPACT Luncheon held at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

Deputy Mahoney, a long-serving officer with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), was recognized for his extraordinary commitment and longevity as a mentor. For over 13 years, Mike has volunteered with CPSFL’s mentoring programs at Highland Elementary and Lake Worth Middle, and has spent more than two decades “changing the odds” for youth across Palm Beach County.

As a mentor, Deputy Mahoney is known for his deep dedication, often staying matched with a single student from the 2nd grade through the 8th grade. To date, he has mentored over 10 local youth, providing a stable, trusted friendship that fosters success in school, at home, and within the community. His impact extends beyond simple weekly meetings; he is a constant presence, providing everything from birthday cupcakes and holiday food baskets to organizing “Shop with a Cop” Christmas gifts and hosting workshops for parents.

“Mike is the person who shows up for his mentees with a solution and support,” said Millie Rodriguez, supervisor of mentoring programs at Community Partners of South Florida. “He is a trusted role model and a strong advocate for families. His work consistently strengthens the relationship between law enforcement and the youth they serve, fostering trust and teamwork through shared experiences”

A highlight of the luncheon was the spotlight on Deputy Mahoney’s current mentorship of 10-year-old twins, Bryan and Miguel. Matched since April 2023, the twins, who come from a large family of 10 siblings, find a unique space for individual attention and growth in their sessions with Mike.

Their mother shares that the boys eagerly count down the days to their weekly meetings, which have become essential to their mental health and well-being.

Through the Police Athletic League (PAL) and PBSO Community Policing, Deputy Mahoney continues to bridge the gap between the badge and the neighborhood, proving that a single dedicated volunteer can transform the trajectory of a child’s life.

For more information about the mentoring program or to learn how to get involved, please visit www.cpsfl.org.

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About Community Partners of South Florida

For more information, please contact: Jaime Elder at jaime@khannaconnections.com

Community Partners of South Florida Celebrates 40 Years of Impact with Sold-Out Anniversary Luncheon

Former CPSFL Board Chair Charlotte Pelton, CPSFL Board Chair Brian Lynott and CPSFL CEO Kelly Powell

Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) marked a historic milestone on Friday, April 10, 2026, hosting a sold-out 40th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon at The Belgrove Resort & Spa.

The event brought together community leaders, long-time supporters, and partners to honor four decades of providing integrated housing, mental health, and community-based services throughout Palm Beach County.

The afternoon was a resounding success, raising $100,000 during this inaugural event to support CPSFL’s mission of strengthening families and neighborhoods.

The capacity crowd of 200 attendees was joined by distinguished guests, including Dr. Danita DeHaney, CEO of Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Lisa Williams-Taylor, CEO of Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, Ike Powell III, Director of Outreach and Community Programming at Palm Beach County Youth Services Department, and Jeff Koons, former Palm Beach County Commissioner, all of whom gathered to recognize the organization’s evolution from its 1986 inception into a “one-stop shop” for holistic community support.

Shekeria Brown and Debbie Rahamim of JPMorganChase, Keely Gideon-Taylor, The Palm Beach Post

The energy in the room reached a pinnacle when Board Chair Brian Lynott took the stage to announce a significant philanthropic opportunity. To commemorate the anniversary, a generous anonymous donor issued a challenge grant for all donations, dollar to dollar, up to $100,000 received through June 30, 2026.

The afternoon was a resounding success and raised $75,000 towards that goal. This funding will be used to further CPSFL’s mission of strengthening families and neighborhoods.

“I’ve seen firsthand how much stability at home and access to care can change the trajectory of a family’s life,” CPSFL CEO Kelly Powell said “Our focus is simple but urgent, ensuring every family has a safe place to call home, access to the care they need, and a real sense of hope for the future. That means making tough decisions today so we can build a stronger, more sustainable organization that can serve this community for the long term.”

Since its founding, CPSFL has grown to serve more than 8,000 individuals annually. The luncheon featured moving testimonials and a commemorative presentation detailing the roadmap for the organization’s future growth in addressing systemic challenges and building sustainable, thriving communities.

Proceeds from the luncheon and the challenge match will provide essential funding ensuring a sustainable future for Palm Beach County’s most vulnerable residents.

For more information about the challenge grant or to make a donation, please visit www.cpsfl.org/donate or contact Amy Brand, Vice-President of Advancement at abrand@cpsfl.org

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About Community Partners of South Florida

For more information, please contact: Jaime Elder at jaime@khannaconnections.com

Wellington Bay Luxury Senior Living Announces Transformative Partnership with Els for Autism® Foundation

Luxury senior living community Wellington Bay is proud to announce a new collaborative partnership with the Els for Autism® Foundation to host their Work Experience program.

This initiative, which officially launched on April 6th, provides adults with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities the opportunity to gain essential hands-on vocational training within a professional hospitality and healthcare environment.

“We are incredibly grateful for the commitment of host sites like Wellington Bay,” said Loden Coleman, Manager of Employment Programs at the Els for Autism Foundation. “They are not only providing a space for our participants to build meaningful, real-world skills, but also creating opportunities for residents and staff to experience firsthand the unique talents and contributions individuals with autism bring to the workplace. Partnerships like this are essential in changing perceptions and opening doors to inclusive employment.”

A strong advocate of strengthening community ties, Wellington Bay is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.

By serving as a partner site, Wellington Bay is helping to bridge the gap between education and paid employment for adults with autism spectrum disorder.

“We are incredibly excited about this collaboration with Els for Autism,” said Jay Mikosch, Campus Executive Director of Wellington Bay. “At Wellington Bay, we believe in the power of engaging community through meaningful partnerships. We are proud to welcome these talented individuals into our family. Watching them develop their skills alongside our team is a rewarding experience for our residents and our staff.”

The 10-week program, running through June 11th, features three participants working shifts on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

The interns are currently gaining experience in high-impact areas: one participant is training in Administration, while two are gaining skills in Culinary Services.

Demonstrating the program’s goal of career exploration, one culinary participant plans to transition to a floor technician role for the second half of the program to diversify their skill set.

To ensure a successful integration, Els for Autism provided comprehensive sensitivity training to the Wellington Bay staff prior to the program’s start. Throughout the duration of the internship, an Els for Autism Employment Specialist/Job Coach remains on-site to support both the participants and the Wellington Bay supervisors, fostering independence and creating natural supports within the workplace.

The Work Experience program is designed for adults ages 18+ who have completed high school and are seeking to enter the workforce. Upon completion of the 10-week session, a celebratory banquet will be held to honor the graduates’ hard work and achievements.

Wellington Bay joins an esteemed group of partner sites, including Jupiter Medical Center and PGA National Resort, in demonstrating that inclusive hiring and specialized vocational training add significant value to the local business community.

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About Wellington Bay

Named one of the “Best Places to Retire” by Money Magazine, Wellington boasts a thriving equestrian community, premier golf courses, and scenic neighborhoods.

About Els for Autism®

Els for Autism is devoted to helping children and adults with autism and their families have a better life. Our purpose is to help people with autism of all abilities reach their fullest potential and live meaningful, fulfilling lives, while supporting the caregivers who walk alongside them.

Els for Autism was established in 2009 by Former World No. 1, World Golf Hall of Famer, and four-time Major Champion Ernie Els, his wife Liezl, and Publisher and Founder of M. Shanken Communications Marvin R. Shanken. The Els’ son, Ben, is impacted by autism, and their personal journey inspired a lifelong commitment to creating better outcomes and brighter futures for individuals with autism.