Fairways Fore Good Gala Raises Record $700,000 for Chasin A Dream Foundation’s Warrior Families
JUPITER, FL - March 6, 2026 - Chasin A Dream Foundation’s sold-out Fairways Fore Good Gala raised more than $700,000 on March 5 at The Pelican Club in Jupiter, marking the most successful fundraising event in the organization’s history.
The Scottish Highlands–themed evening welcomed guests with the sound of traditional bagpipers and kicked off with the inaugural “Best Legs in a Kilt” competition, setting the tone for a night filled with generosity, celebration, and community impact.
Lori Griffith, Deneilia Bennett, Sam Kerrigan, Melia Simon, Layla Morales, Emily Hawn, Ethan Hawn, Ella Mosqueda, Violet Brault, Tobias DeLeon, Brooklyn Gonzalez, Lennox Iles, Anthony Lombardi, Juliana Lombardi
PHOTO CREDIT: Tracey Benson Photography
CBS News anchor Sam Kerriganserved as host and emcee for the evening, while renowned auctioneer Neil Saffer led an energetic live auction featuring luxury travel experiences, fine jewelry, original artwork, exclusive golf opportunities, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Guests competed for sought-after items such as a seven-night Italian culinary journey across Tuscany and Rome, a concert experience at the Sphere in Las Vegas, and coveted rounds at some of the most prestigious private golf clubs in Florida and beyond, offering rare access typically unavailable to the public. The auction also featured a full day of golf and instruction with PGA Master Professional Warren Bottke, one of the evening’s standout experiences.
Additional highlights included a fully customized golf cart donated by Jupiter Golf Carts and an original coastal artwork by Jupiter artist Paul Seaman, both of which drew enthusiastic bidding from guests.
The most emotional and inspiring moment of the evening was the foundation’s signature Warrior Runway Fashion Show, the heart of the Fairways Fore Good Gala. Eleven Chasin A Dream warriors took the stage to thunderous applause as they were celebrated for their courage and resilience.
“[This event is] about showing these incredible children and their families that they are surrounded by a community that believes in them, supports them, and walks beside them every step of the way.”
One of the evening’s most powerful moments came when warrior Layla Rai, an 11-year-old currently battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), addressed the audience before the fashion show, sharing a heartfelt message about perseverance and hope. The runway finale brought the ballroom to its feet as warrior Violet was lifted onto the stage in her wheelchair by her father and another parent, joined by all of the evening’s warriors in a powerful closing moment.
“This evening is about so much more than fundraising,” said Lori Griffith, founder of Chasin A Dream Foundation. “It’s about showing these incredible children and their families that they are surrounded by a community that believes in them, supports them, and walks beside them every step of the way.”
The success of the 2026 gala was made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsors John and Wendy Havens, along with Claret Jug sponsors Melissa Weidhorn and the Tatta-Crowley Family Foundation, and a dedicated community of donors and partners who helped bring the evening to life. A full list of sponsors can be found at chasinadream.org.
With more than $700,000 raised, the event further strengthens Chasin A Dream’s ability to provide financial assistance, essential resources, and programs like Mindful Haven, which offers critical emotional support and respite for parents navigating the challenges of caring for a child with a life-threatening illness.
To support Chasin A Dream Foundation, donations can be made through their website at chasinadream.org, and volunteers are always welcome to join the mission.
ABOUT CHASIN A DREAM FOUNDATION
Chasin A Dream Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing life-changing support to local children battling life-threatening illnesses and disabilities. Founded in 2017 in Jupiter, Florida by Lori Griffith, Chasin A Dream serves as a beacon of hope, offering financial assistance, resources, and support to children and families in need.
Through its signature Locals Helping Locals® initiative, the foundation rallies the community to directly impact the lives of these warriors, ensuring they receive critical medical care, essential supplies, and meaningful moments of joy along their journey. With the support of donors, sponsors, and volunteers, Chasin A Dream continues to expand its reach across Palm Beach County and beyond.
To learn more or get involved, visit chasinadream.org.
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