At Valerie’s House, we know that the support of our community is essential in keeping our programs going and providing the care that grieving children and families need. The 2024 Calusa Sportsman Foundation Inshore Benefit was a perfect example of how generous sponsors and participants come together to make an extraordinary impact. We are beyond grateful to the Calusa Sportsman Foundation and all of the incredible sponsors who made this event possible!

This year, Valerie’s House and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County were honored as the event’s beneficiaries. These donations are more than just financial contributions – they represent hope, compassion, and a belief in the work we do every day. While we have our Family is Forever Home in Fort Myers, it is this kind of community support that allows us to continue serving families throughout Southwest Florida.

The Event: A Memorable Weekend

The 2024 Inshore Benefit brought together passionate anglers and generous supporters for a weekend of camaraderie, competition, and fun – all while raising funds for a worthy cause. The event kicked off with the Captain’s Dinner on September 6th, where fishing enthusiasts gathered for an evening filled with food and shared stories. The following day, on September 7th, anglers hit the water in pursuit of Snook, Redfish, and Trout, showcasing their skills in a spirited tournament.

But the highlight of the weekend wasn’t just about reeling in fish. It was about the connections formed and the community that came together. As the sun set, participants gathered for the Awards Dinner to celebrate the day’s successes and honor the event’s mission to give back. The live auction and festivities provided additional opportunities to contribute to Valerie’s House and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County, with the funds directly supporting our efforts to help children heal.

A Special Experience for Our Teens

One particularly memorable moment during the event was when several of our Valerie’s House teens had the opportunity to fish with world-renowned Captain James Marko. Known for his expertise and his ESPN show, Goliath Fishing, Captain James is a respected figure in the fishing community. Thanks to the generosity of Kellie Urban and Rita Keltner, who purchased the fishing package at the event and gifted it to our teens, Peyton, Nick, and Cal enjoyed an unforgettable day on the water.

With Captain James guiding them, the teens spent the day catching snook and soaking up valuable fishing tips. The joy on their faces was priceless, and the experience created memories that will last a lifetime. It was more than just a day of fishing – it was a reminder that our teens are surrounded by a supportive community that truly cares about their well-being.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

We cannot express enough how much this support means to us. The 2024 Calusa Sportsman Foundation Inshore Benefit brought together a community of sponsors who believe in what we do, and we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your contributions ensure that we can continue to offer critical grief support to children and families across Southwest Florida.

To all the sponsors, participants, and donors – thank you. Your generosity and commitment to making a difference keep our mission going strong. For families who walk through the doors of our Family is Forever Home, your support represents a lifeline, giving them the space and tools they need to heal.

To learn more about the sponsors who made this incredible event happen, click here.

Join Us in Making a Difference

If you want to hear more about how Valerie’s House is making an impact in the lives of grieving families, visit our website to explore our programs, including children’s grief counseling, teen grief support, and much more. Together, we can continue to build a compassionate community for those who need it most.