A Swing of Grace: Teeing Up for Education

Sunshine, laughter, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to transforming lives—this year’s 13th Annual A Swing of Grace was nothing short of extraordinary.

Held at the stunning Bonita Bay Club, the day began with the always-popular Putt & Pour Challenge, setting the tone for a fun and competitive afternoon on the course. Golfers enjoyed the beautiful weather and the spirit of friendly competition, all in support of a mission that means so much to our community.

But the impact of the day stretched far beyond the fairways.

After the tournament, guests gathered for cocktails and had the special opportunity to meet some of our incredible Grace Place scholarship students. The evening continued with dinner and a moving keynote, featuring two students who shared how Grace Place helped them achieve the opportunity of attending college on full scholarships.

One especially powerful moment came from Aylin, a high school scholarship recipient, who shared her deeply personal story:

“After my dad was deported, my mom and I relied on the food pantry every Friday. My mom took English classes, and I was at safe and reliable Grace Place every day learning and growing. It’s a place that doesn’t just provide my mom and me with our physical and educational needs—it filled our emotional needs as well… Looking back at my childhood, so many of my happiest memories are intertwined with Grace Place. It isn’t just a place; it is an extension of our family. Because of your generosity and the support of this incredible community, I can chase my dreams.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

The night closed with an electrifying live auction and Fund-A-Need, where guests raised their paddles high in an inspiring show of generosity. We are thrilled to announce that thanks to the incredible spirit and support of our community, we raised an astounding $481,929—funds that will go directly toward supporting Grace Place students and families through education, enrichment, and empowerment.

We are especially grateful to our generous sponsors and a host of other dedicated contributors whose support helped make this event possible. Your partnership is vital to advancing our mission and changing lives.

To everyone who played, volunteered, sponsored, or cheered us on from afar—thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and belief in our mission continue to make a lasting impact.

Be sure to check out a few snapshots from the day below.

From all of us at Grace Place, thank you for Caring Enough to Make a Difference. We can’t wait to see you again next year!

THANKS TO OUR  EVENT SPONSORS

Fifth Third Bank

Lisa & Ken Ewell
First Horizon Bank
Beth & J.P. Davis
Marta & Keith Cody
Conditioned Air
Bessemer Trust
Naples Illustrated

THANKS TO OUR HOLE SPONSORS

Debbie & David Finch

Ryan & Lina Chiodo at Compass
Karen & Curt Hoffman
JP Morgan Private Bank
Couzens Lansky Attorneys & Counselors
Richard Turner
Karen & John Hill
James Decker
Gail & Russ D’Agostino
Margaret & Peter Viall
Gulfstar Construction
Tropic Lawn Care, Inc.
Gulfshore Enterprise
GrayRobinson, Attorneys at Law
Trinity Chiropractic
DeAngelis Diamond
Seacoast Bank
Subaru of Naples
Morgan Stanley
Slepcevich Financial Group
Rita Mabli & Patrick Hardiman
Marta & Keith Cody
Cheryl & Paul Holmberg
Poetic Beauty
Naples Dental Boutique
Carolyn & Richard Novak