YMCA Golden Gala Shines

Last Sunday was a big evening for supporters of the YMCA of Collier County. The YMCA Golden Gala was a night of “glitz, glamour, and giving back!” Held at the Hideaway Beach Club, the Golden Gala raised funds to support increasing senior programming. It has been pointed out that in 2025 six out of ten residents in Southern Collier County are 65 or older, and by the year 2050 45%  of all Collier residents will be 65 or older. The demands for these targeted programs for that valued segment of our population are essential, and the donations being received will go to building the new Healthy Living Center on the Marco campus, providing the necessary space for that vital programming that includes Parkinson’s Programs, caregiver support groups, AIM fitness classes, wellness seminars, Smart Fit and Bio-density, tennis, pickleball and more. 

The YMCA Golden Gala was co-chaired by Ashley Lupo and Deborah Hobbs. Lupo has been a longtime member of the Marco and YMCA of Collier County Boards of Directors, having served as President on both Boards as well as co-chairing the Marco Campus Active Life Campaign. Hobbs has also been very active in community activities on Marco and in Collier County. She has also served many years as a Board Member of the Marco Island Charter Middle School and volunteers for the Y-Reads Program. 

Both co-chairs expressed their gratitude to members of the Y staff, the many volunteers throughout the community, and especially the sponsors of the event at all levels which helped to make the evening so successful. They also commented on the wonderful assistance provided by the Hideaway Beach staff, who went above and beyond providing such an elegant venue where guests enjoyed a spectacular sunset. 

The host for the evening’s activities was Tatianna Reign Diaz, reigning United States of America Mrs. Florida. Diaz actively collaborates with numerous nonprofits across Florida, fighting against human trafficking while striving to empower others to join the efforts to provide services for those affected by that crime. In addition, she endeavors to help low-income individuals and organizations regarding the need for housing. 

The YMCA of Collier County was pleased to welcome Scott Robertson, a full-time auctioneer who is often referred to as “Florida’s Favorite Fundraising Auctioneer.” Scott has served in that capacity for over 29 years and has assisted schools and nonprofits by raising over $500 million to help meet their needs, and the YMCA Golden Gala was no exception. 

A special moment during the event came when Lucinda “Cindy” Love-Abounader, president and CEO of the YMCA of Collier County, called attention to a special recognition that evening. Carl J. Titgemeier Jr., who passed away on July 25, 2024, was recognized for his two decades of service to the Marco YMCA board, having served as President, Vice President of Facility Development, and the Finance Committee. 

Titgemeier was the driving force behind most of the capital improvements that created the vibrant campus that the Marco YMCA became over the twenty years he served. “His dedication, wisdom, and leadershipwere the reason he was referred to as the go-to person, and I miss him greatly,” said Love-Abounader. 

Titgemeier’s son and wife were present at the event. 

After the closing of the live auction, it didn’t take long for the five-piece ensemble to provide the incentive for attendees to flood the dance floor and show their stuff. Those who chose not to would still have plenty of time to peruse the silent auction tables, order another cocktail, and continue in conversation with friends around the numerous tables who had nothing but compliments for the evening’s event. 

The Marco Y joined together with the Naples YMCA  in 2022 to create the joint YMCA of Collier County. That collaborative effort allowed economic as well as shared resources to better serve the growing Collier County resident base.