Santa Barbara, CA – The 13th Annual Flower Empower Luncheon, hosted by Dream Foundation, achieved remarkable success by raising over $160,000 in support of its programs while celebrating the contributions of local volunteers and sponsors.
Held at the picturesque Rosewood Miramar Beach and attended by 200 esteemed guests, the event paid tribute to the generosity of donors, volunteers, and floral professionals who spread joy across the Santa Barbara community through vibrant bouquets.
Distinguished honorees included David Sparer, recognized as Volunteer of the Year, along with Youth Volunteers of the Year Chloe, Luca, and Matteo Bottorff, and Natasha and Alina Stapf. Alex Van Wingerden of Gallup & Stribling was lauded as Grower of the Year, while special recognition was given to program sponsors Alice Tweed Tuohy Foundation, Robin & Roger Himovitz, and The Thornton Foundation.
Highlights of the occasion encompassed a wine pull and a silent auction, featuring exclusive items such as a private tour of Bellosguardo, luxurious travel packages at El Encanto and Rosewood Miramar Beach, and bespoke offerings from local businesses.
Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in an opportunity drawing for coveted prizes, including an El Capitan Canyon retreat, floral jewelry by local artist Marilyn Harrison, and an exquisite orchid display courtesy of Westerlay Orchids.
Guest speakers Pam and John Johnston shared their heartfelt experience with Flower Empower, recounting how weekly deliveries of fresh flowers and homemade treats provided solace during John’s battle with throat cancer.
“The flowers we received each week were so powerful, I often cried,” expressed Pam. “Volunteers dedicate time out of their lives to create and deliver each bouquet. It is so generous and so kind. I was so thankful for this extra layer of support.”
Reflecting on the profound impact of the floral deliveries, John added, “I didn’t realize it would have such a profound impact. I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
Andrew Firestone and his daughter Anja took on the roles of emcees for the event, overseeing a lively live auction that featured exclusive experiences like a week’s retreat in Croatia for 10, donated by Jim Alexander, Paul Trevino, and John and Theresa Nahajzer. Other auction highlights included a table for six at The Ranch Table Gathering along with a signed copy of The Ranch Table cookbook by Elizabeth Poett, and a tropical getaway to Maui’s Four Seasons Resort Wailea with first-class travel provided by Alaska Airlines, a sustaining partner of Dream Foundation.
