Over $50,000 To Benefit Community-Based Connections, Inc.
Submitted by Fran Folic
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. – Magic was in the air as nearly 250 guests recently attended the fourth annual Cordish Companies Green Blazer Awards Gala & Celebration presented by Florida Blue at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. This celebratory event raised over $50,000 to support Community-Based Connections, Inc. (CBCI) programs that serve underserved communities.
“The success of this year’s gala reflects the community’s commitment to advancing health equity and ensuring that children and families have access to the resources they need to improve their quality of life,” said Mikelange Olbel, CEO of Community Based Connections, Inc. “We are grateful for the support of our loyal sponsors, honorees, and guests who made this possible.”
Guests were welcomed with a lively cocktail reception featuring DJ Radamass and a special performance by young local singer Terry Maxwell This set the tone for an evening of celebration that continued with dinner plus live entertainment and dancing with the FM Band.
Local 10 News anchor Michaila Hightower guided the stage ceremony, recognizing four honorees for their contributions to community health. Mikelange Olbel made the green blazer presentation to Tim Curtin, vice president of community services, Memorial Healthcare System; Rosalyn Frazier, CEO, Broward Community & Family Health Centers (BCOM); Kathy Salerno, director of community relations, Broward Health and Ken Walters, CEO, Community Care Plan.
The evening also featured the surprise recognition of Taniqua Simmons as CBCI’s Employee of the Year. In addition, the Broward Teachers Union announced a $5,000 donation to support CBCI’s mission.
The event was supported by The Cordish Companies as the title sponsor and Florida Blue as the presenting sponsor. Additional sponsors included Broward Education Foundation, BCOM, FP&L, Broward Teachers Union, Handy, HCA Healthcare, Keith & Associates, Memorial Healthcare System, The GEO Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Brenda D. Forman Clerk of Courts, Housing Authority of Pompano Beach, Cavache, Gang Alternatives and King Intelligent & Security Services.