- December 4, 2025
The SMA Healthcare Foundation proudly announces its inaugural Gala of Light, to be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast.
Proceeds from the Gala, a black-tie optional event, will directly benefit SMA Healthcare’s programs and services in Flagler County, according to a SMA Healthcare press release. Guests will enjoy a memorable evening of fine dining, entertainment, and heartfelt storytelling as the Foundation honors champions of care and celebrates those making strides on their journey to recovery.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and individual seats are $300. The emcee will be Jay Scherr, a business performance coach, consultant, keynote speaker and WNZF 94.9FM radio and podcast host.
The theme of the night is "Together, we light the path to wellness and recovery." The Gala of Light will feature special tributes to two honorees: Heidi Petito and Sandra Shank.
Petito, the Flagler County administrator and a board member of the SMA Healthcare Board of Directors, will receive the Impact Award for her visionary leadership and commitment to building public-private partnerships. She "has played a pivotal role in advocating" for SMA Healthcare's new Integrated Behavioral Health Stabilization Unit, the press release said.
Shank, CEO and Founder of Abundant Life Ministries-Hope House, Inc., will be honored with the Phoenix Award for her journey "of overcoming the darkness of abuse, pain, and suffering into a powerful mission of hope."
For more information, please contact Melissa Gabriel, Donor Relations Manager, at [email protected] or 386-301-2253.
