Thursday, April 2, 2026
PALM CITY, Fla. — The Education Foundation of Martin County will be exploring the adventures of Charlie Bucket and Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory at its upcoming Evening of Excellence | Bids for Kids event. Presented by Morganti, this elegant gala fundraiser will be held from 6-11 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Harbour Ridge Country Club in Palm City and is expected to be a sellout.
“We invite you to channel your inner child and join us for a whimsical adventure at the Education Foundation’s deliciously, delightful celebration of inspiration and generosity where every bid, every donation, and every golden moment helps open doors for local students and empowers teachers with the tools they need to help young minds thrive,” said Lisa Rhodes, executive director of the Education Foundation of Martin County.
Tickets are $250 per person (must be 21 and older to attend) and there are a limited number for sale. The evening will begin with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by a delectable dinner. The gala raises funds to assist the Education Foundation with enriching and enhancing the quality of education in Martin County’s public schools.
Stephen Sines, president and CEO of Morganti, a longtime presenting sponsor, stated, “Morganti is proud to once again support the Foundation’s mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County and it is an honor to partner with the Foundation in making a lasting impact on local education.”
Beyond dinner and dancing, this candy-coated wonderland will offer golden opportunities at every turn, including the largest silent auction on the Treasure Coast and a live auction conducted by professional auctioneer KC Daniel. More than 500 extraordinary treasures await guests along with an exhilarating live auction featuring once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Auction items include gift baskets, vacation getaways, spa treatments, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, fishing charters and restaurant certificates. All proceeds will support educational enrichment programming for students.
Other top event sponsors include Hedrick Brothers Construction; CROC Enterprises LLC; Gehring Group Brown & Brown Public Sector; Jacquin & Sons Construction; Keiser University; Proctor Construction; PBK; Sandhill Cove Retirement Living; AT&T; Tami Karol Insurance; FPL; Anthony D. George, Jr. P.A.; Meola Technology, Inc.; Treasure Coast Psychiatry; Conchy Joe’s Seafood; The Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House; UDT; Florida Blue/USABLE; STS Aviation Group; and SwissMango.
For information, to buy tickets, or learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org or call the office at 772-600-8062.
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