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The Celebration of the Lakes was a truly unforgettable afternoon full of laughter, meaningful conversations, music, and a shared love for the Indian River Lakes. Thanks to all of you who joined us, this year’s event sold more tickets than years past, a testament to the strength and spirit of this incredible community. We also want to recognize and thank everyone who opened their hearts, and their pocketbooks, to support the live and silent auctions. Your generous bidding brought energy and excitement to the event.
We’re especially grateful to our generous sponsors who helped make this celebration possible:
- Watertown Savings Bank
- LaFave White & McGivern, L.S., P.C.,
- Northern Flow Vineyard and DeLuke’s Garden Center
- Aubertine & Currier
- Corner Market
- Adirondack Energy Products, Inc.
- Cross Island Farms & the Enchanted Edible Forest.
A huge thank-you to Jay Matteson, our fantastic emcee, Kaydence Timerman for providing lovely live music, and 24 Carrots Catering for the delicious food and beverages. We are deeply appreciative to Thousand Islands Winery for hosting us in such a stunning setting.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was hearing from some of the young people impacted by IRLC’s educational programming. The WHIRL students in attendance shared their enthusiasm and learning, and we were especially moved by past WHIRL student, Jillian Neaves, whose touching remarks showed how the WHIRL program has shaped her career path. A special thank you to Andrea Inserra for sharing more about WHIRL’s growing impact. The important work of the WHIRL team is making a real difference in the lives of young people.
This event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our Celebration of the Lakes Committee, the dedicated volunteers who helped throughout the day, and the unwavering support of our Board of Directors, who believed in this event from the very beginning.
As our organization continues to build our volunteer-led roots, we are reminded just how strong and generous this community truly is. In her remarks during the event, IRLC Office Manager Katie Syring captured this perfectly:
“The experiences we’re creating aren’t just stories or memories they’re impacts.” Continuing to state: “Every single person here this afternoon has already made an impact. That doesn’t end here at Celebration of the Lakes. The people in this room are not simply like-minded individuals we are the memory-makers and storytellers of these lands and waters. Everything IRLC protects needs guardians and those guardians are you.”
Because of your generosity, commitment, and belief in our mission, Celebration of the Lakes was not only a beautiful event it was a step forward in our work to protect and cherish the Indian River Lakes region.
If you are a business owner and would like more information on how you can become a business partner for next year’s Celebration of the Lakes or another wonderful program or event please visit out Business Partnership page for more information.