Page 9 - Palm City Spotlight - January '22

Palm City Spotlight, Page 9
Hibiscus Children’s Center
Founder LaVaughn Tilton
Awarded Legacy Award
Hibiscus Children’s Center is honored to share that
Hibiscus Children’s Center Founder, LaVaughn Tilton,
was awarded the National Philanthropy Day “Leave a
Legacy Award.” This special award was presented at a
recent luncheon hosted by the Association of Fundraising
Professionals and accepted by Matt Markley, Hibiscus
CEO, on LaVaughn’s behalf.
When LaVaughn passed away earlier this year, our
community lost one of our children’s greatest advocates
and heroes. CEO Matt Markley shared, “When Hibiscus
opened its doors 36 years ago, I’m reasonably certain
LaVaughn had no idea the legacy she would leave. She
desperately wanted to end child abuse and neglect, but if
Honoring
Hibiscus CEO Matt Markley accepts NPD Legacy Award
presented by Elizabeth Barbella and Elisabeth Glynnon,
2020 National Philanthropy Day Hibiscus winners: Dan on behalf of LaVaughn Tilton. Photo by Liz McKinley
Braden, Michelle Schwartz and Lilly Freese Photography
she couldn’t end it in her lifetime, she wanted to make
sure the children had a safe haven where they are loved,
cared for and nurtured. That is LaVaughn’s legacy.”
The community wide effect that LaVaughn created is
still going strong today in the family of volunteers, staff
and supporters who continue to join in the fight against the
devastating trauma children experience right here on the
Treasure Coast. LaVaughn laid the blueprint for the care
victimized children needed. Following in her footsteps, our
goal is to protect children and help them cope with trauma
while building positive adaptive and problem-solving skills
that will lead to a successful future.
Hibiscus was also honored that the three nominees
who received awards during last year’s virtual National
Philanthropy Day event were honored at this year’s
celebration at Harbor Ridge Country Club. Dan Braden
received the “Unsung Hero” award for successfully
combining his skills and talents as a renowned architect
with his passion for protecting children and making life
better for them. Dan donated his professional services as
owner of Braden & Braden AIA, P.A., a local architectural
firm, to the design, building and renovation projects of
the Hibiscus Shelter and Village. As an active member of
the Board of Directors since 1985, Dan has been a leader
in the governance and leadership of the organization’s
operations. Dan has been a tremendous advocate and
supporter for over 35 years.
Michelle Schwartz received the Outstanding Volunteer
Fundraiser Award for her leadership to help create and
execute a successful first-time Hibiscus event. Many new
business professionals were introduced to the organization’s
mission and at least 75 new potential supporters attended. The
following year, Michelle did it again with a fun kick-up your
heels “Gone Country” event that brought in over 20 percent
of new supporters. Michelle continues to be an active guild
member and help fundraise to support the children.
Lilly Freese received the Outstanding Youth in
Philanthropy Award for starting her own business in 2017
– Boots’ Beach Bakery – to combine her passion to help
others with her delicious baking talents. And she was only
8 years old when she started! Her goal was to donate the
proceeds to local charities. During the Hibiscus Fashion
Show and Luncheon, Lilly was recognized as the youngest
corporate sponsor. Lilly is a special young lady who has
said, “I’m a kid trying to make the world a better place
one sweet treat at a time!”
For more information about Hibiscus Children’s Center,
please visit us at: HibiscusChildrensCenter.org or contact
Michelle King, CDO, at (cell) (561) 452-5791.
See answer in this paper.