Masquerade Soirée: Wine & Cheese for a Cause – A Night to Remember
On November 16, 2024, the Gregory Smith Jr. Foundation hosted its highly anticipated Masquerade Soirée: Wine & Cheese for a Cause in Miami, Florida. This evening of elegance, advocacy, and giving brought the community together to support youth empowerment and wellness initiatives while honoring the foundation’s commitment to creating a brighter future for youth.
The event successfully raised $5,000 to benefit Break the Cycle, a program that uses cycling to instill discipline, promote physical fitness, and provide purpose for young people. Guests were treated to an unforgettable night filled with culinary delights, exciting auctions, and meaningful moments that showcased the power of community.
An Evening of Elegance and Purpose
The soirée unfolded in an air of sophistication, as guests arrived adorned in elaborate masks, embracing the mystique of the masquerade theme. This added a touch of charm and excitement to an already memorable evening.
One of the event’s highlights was its curated lineup of wine and cheese pairings, which offered guests an indulgent culinary journey. A standout pairing of smoked herring and white wine earned rave reviews from attendees, elevating the tasting experience.
Adding an interactive twist to the evening, attendees participated in a “Word of the Night” activity, encouraging camaraderie and engagement as they navigated the tasting stations. The night’s purpose—to rally community support for youth-focused initiatives—was unmistakable as attendees came together to make a meaningful impact.
Auction Highlights: Supporting a Noble Cause
One of the evening’s most exciting moments was the live auction, featuring an impressive array of items, including:
- Original art pieces: Such as “Blooming in Chaos” by Jeiyl Carl “JC” Perucho, symbolizing growth amidst adversity.
- Broadway tickets: A cultural treat for theater enthusiasts.
- Signed memorabilia: A football autographed by Miami native and NFL star Tutu Atwell.
- Luxurious experiences: Including spa treatments and exclusive Miami City Ballet tickets.
These items not only energized the crowd but also underscored the shared commitment to advancing the foundation’s mission. Every bid brought the community closer to making a difference in the lives of young people.
A Mission Rooted in Advocacy
The Gregory Smith Jr. Foundation, co-founded by Brandon Stein of Stein Law and Barbara Smith, honors the life of Gregory Smith Jr., a young man tragically lost to gun violence. The foundation transforms heartbreak into hope by supporting programs like Break the Cycle, which provide underprivileged youth with opportunities to thrive.
“This is something, this is volunteer work, and you know it’s helping people who need it the most,” said Stein, “I suggested, obviously gun violence is an important issue, but maybe we take it a step further and try to keep kids off the street.”
In other words, they wanted their foundation to also help fund extracurricular activities for underprivileged or inner city youth, with a specific focus on children in elementary school K-5. “To keep them off the street, we think that’s the noble cause.”
Impact and Looking Ahead
The funds raised at the Masquerade Soirée will directly support Break the Cycle’s programs, which engage youth through the joy and discipline of cycling. By promoting fitness and community engagement, these programs offer young people a safe and productive outlet, helping to deter them from risky behaviors.
The soirée also marked a renewed commitment to the Gregory Smith Jr. Foundation’s broader mission: addressing youth violence through education, mentorship, and advocacy. Collaborations like this one reflect the foundation’s dedication to creating pathways for lasting change.
Explore More with the GSJ Foundation
The Gregory Smith Jr. Foundation continues to lead efforts in youth empowerment and advocacy. Download our latest November 2024 Newsletter [PDF] to learn more about our programs, partnerships, and upcoming events.
Get Involved
If you’re inspired by the work of the Gregory Smith Jr. Foundation and would like to contribute to their mission, visit steinlaw.com/the-gregory-smith-jr-foundation for more information. Together, we can create a safer, brighter future for all children.
For legal assistance or questions about your rights, contact Stein Law at 833-691-5663 or fill out our online form for a FREE consultation.