Silent auction preview now open, online bidding begins Feb. 3

STARability Foundation, a leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will host its 8th Annual STAR Gala: Where Abilities Shine: Generosity Blooms on Saturday, Feb. 7, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. The signature fundraising event features an elevated cocktail garden party, dancing, and an expansive silent and live auction showcasing once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The exciting live auction will feature an extraordinary, curated collection of high-end travel, entertainment and lifestyle packages. Highlights include:

- VIP luxury sports experiences across multiple professional leagues, including the Cleveland Guardians (MLB), New Jersey Devils (NHL) and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA) donated by David and Allison Blitzer;

- An exclusive private island getaway on Keewaydin Island donated by Carrie and John Cooney, Randy and Lori Stofft, and Mike and Gaelyn McGavick;

- A four-night stay at the Harvest Inn coupled with music and wine-filled Napa Valley adventure courtesy of Valerie Boyd and Jeff Gargiulo;

- A historic five-night Bahamian retreat complete with private air travel and boating excursions donated by Robert and Valerie Hay;

- A thrilling FIFA World Cup bronze medal match in Miami package and more.

During the event, a surprise live auction item will be announced by a special guest. In addition to the live auction, guests and the general public can now preview more than 60 premium silent auction items, including luxury travel, fine dining, spa, beauty and wellness, designer fashion, sports and signature experiences, truly offering something for everyone to enjoy.

New this year, a special assortment of super silent auction items will offer unforgettable opportunities, including luxury getaways to Wickwood Inn and Greenbriar Resort, an ultimate race weekend with Chip Ganassi, VIP treatment at a Notre Dame vs. Miami game and access to some of the country’s most prestigious private golf clubs.  

Online silent auction bidding will open Tuesday, Feb. 3, and close Sunday, Feb. 8 at 12 p.m. Preview auction items and register at secure.qgiv.com/event/starabilityfoundationgala/items.

Presented by STOCK Development, the 2026 STAR Gala is co-chaired by sisters Jenny Haire, Barbie Kellam and Morgan Rodgers, longtime supporters of STARability whose leadership reflects the event’s theme of generosity and growth. Proceeds from the evening will directly support STARability’s innovative, community-based programs that provide education, employment pathways and social connection for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information about STARability’s 2026 STAR Gala, visit STARability.org/gala.

For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. Their compassionate team supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities. To learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.