The Chocoholic Frolic was a sweet success! This benefit for The Florida Center for Early Childhood offered guests a decadent evening of chocolate-themed foods at The Venice Art Center on Thursday, Oct. 4th. Nearly 100 people sampled dishes ranging from “braised pork belly with a chocolate reduction sauce” to chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake, frozen custard, gelato, and more. Big thanks goes out to our sponsors, the participating restaurants, volunteers from the Venice High School Key Club and Apple Store, musician Joey O., and the GATORs of Church of the Redeemer!

Aside from the culinary delights, guests also had the chance to win gift baskets featuring one-of-a-kind ceramic and glass artwork made by preschool children at the agency’s Starfish Academy. Jeff Woodin, Chairman of the Board of Directors for The Florida Center greeted the crowd and the organization’s chief operating officer, Dr. Kristie Skoglund, spoke about the importance of early childhood therapies and mental health. The Florida Center for Early Childhood is the leading nonprofit provider of therapeutic services, child development, and early education in Southwest Florida. Contact us to learn more and see how you can get involved!