DCWAF's Galentine's Day Fundraiser Makes Strides for Young Women

Words by Ashley Locke

In Northwest Florida, the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) has been making waves in its journey to uplift the lives of at-risk girls through its annual Galentine's Day Fundraiser. The event, which started in 2022 with a modest goal of $30,000, has exceeded expectations, signaling a community's resounding commitment to empowering young women.

The inaugural Galentine's Day Fundraiser in 2022 was an extraordinary success, raising over $64,000. The event showcased the power of female solidarity, bringing together women from various walks of life to support initiatives within the Foundation's 15 partner children's charities that specifically focus on at-risk girls. The gathering boasted an all-female guest list, featuring Laura Quick, the Founder of Good Grit Magazine and Good Grit Agency, as the keynote speaker. In a remarkable display of support for women-owned businesses, every aspect of the event's production was entrusted to female entrepreneurs. 

The funds raised have supported crucial initiatives across different partner charities. These initiatives ranged from self-care and self-esteem programs at AMIkids Emerald Coast to self-defense training for girls at the Mental Health Association of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The impact extended to providing job exposure and training for young girls with developmental differences at Westonwood Ranch and addressing unique health needs through feminine hygiene products for girls at Shelter House of Northwest Florida. In a state where prisons don't provide period products, DCWAF's help in bridging this gap has inspired others, like Cullman La Dames in Alabama, to undertake similar efforts. “As an entrepreneur, mentoring young women to find their fullest potential has always been important to me,” said Jeanne Dailey, Founder and CEO of Newman-Dailey Resort Properties and Destin Charity Wine Auction Chairman of the Board. “Providing the resources they need to see beyond their circumstances is critical to breaking the cycles of poverty and abuse that so many women are born into.”

Laura Quick, returning as the keynote speaker for the 2024 event on February 3rd, expressed her admiration for the growth and impact of the Galentine's Day Fundraiser in such a short time. The event will once again take place at DCWAF trustee Candis Wilson's residence, continuing to emphasize a commitment to female-led businesses and attendees.

The success of the Galentine's Day Fundraiser has spurred optimism for the future. The 2023 Galentine's Day Fundraiser shattered previous records by raising $92,500, a $30,000 increase from the inaugural event. With 17 partner charities in mind, DCWAF aims to expand its reach even further this year, supporting both existing and new projects that benefit young girls in the community. The event promises to be a beacon of inspiration, with engaging speakers and activities, such as a cocktail making experience with Better Together Beverage.

As the Galentine's Day Fundraiser continues to flourish, it stands as a testament to the collective power of women supporting women. “Galentine’s is the perfect way to bring women of influence together to empower the next generation of girls. Together we can make a difference, and I look forward to seeing the impact these funds will make as the event continues to grow,” said Dailey. 

In a world where the potential of young girls is boundless, DCWAF's commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation is creating a brighter future.