The 10th Annual MarineMax Yacht Gala brought the community together for an unforgettable evening of dockside giving in support of Lee Health. With this year’s celebration, the event has now raised more than $2.5 million over the past decade, reflecting ten years of generosity and impact across Southwest Florida.
Held at MarineMax Fort Myers, this year’s “Under a Million Stars” celebration marked a diamond anniversary on the water. Proceeds from the 2026 gala will benefit the SEA STAR Program (Safety Education Awareness, Sensory Training – Autism Readiness) at Golisano Children’s Hospital, an innovative initiative designed to improve care experiences for children with autism and sensory sensitivities.
The SEA STAR Program equips healthcare teams with specialized sensory training, enhances care environments to reduce overstimulation, and provides tools that help children feel safe and supported throughout their medical visits. From Florida’s first sensory-friendly ambulance to calming enhancements across emergency, inpatient, and outpatient settings, the program is redefining inclusive pediatric care in the region.
“The 10th anniversary of the MarineMax Yacht Gala was a powerful reflection of our community’s heart,” said Justin Brand, senior director of development for Lee Health Foundation. “Because of our advocates’ generosity, children who experience sensory challenges will continue receiving care in environments thoughtfully designed with comfort, dignity, and compassion in mind.”…