Before they even got in the door, attendees of SunServe’s SHINE Gala knew they were in for a night to remember. Vintage 1950s cars sat in the two prime parking spots outside The Venue with gorgeous models in feathered costumes standing alongside.

The theme was A Night At the Tropicana and no detail was neglected. Evoking 1950s Havana were music, dancers, bags of coffee beans and a man hand rolling cigars during the cocktail hour. The Tropicana All-Stars performed an amazing set and the party had the feel of an old school supper club.

The crowd was clearly into it, as many got up from their seat to dance, culminating in an impromptu conga line.

The party was great, but the cause is even greater. SunServe’s annual gala raises money for the organization’s mental health programs. The organization takes a holistic approach, believing that food, medical, and housing insecurities must be addressed as part of a mental health program.

The Tropicana vibe was more than a fun party theme. It was very personal to SunServe CEO Tony Lima. 

“I’ve always wanted to have a gala centered on the beauty of Cuban culture. With all of the rhetoric surrounding immigrants it was the perfect time to celebrate with a gala like this.”

Lima’s grandparents came from Cuba and he lamented that his grandfather never realized his dream of returning to a free Cuba.

SunServe, like so many nonprofit service organizations, is in the midst of state sanctioned bullying. Grants are being cut or eliminated outright while longtime supporters turn their backs under government pressure from Tallahassee and Washington.

This night was meant to not only raise money, but to raise spirits.

“SunServe helps from queer youth to older seniors and everyone in between,” attendee FayWhat?! said. “They have made it their mission to take care of folks who are suffering through this. Giving them resources and options so they don’t have to suffer alone.”

Two leading citizens and an organization were honored. Project Beauty got the Tomorrow’s Legacy Award and Mark Hunter received the Doctor James Lopresti Visionary Award.

The most poignant moment of the night was when FLoatarama founders Scott Schram and Roderick MacKenzie were honored with the Community Partners of the Year. This was Schramm’s first major public appearance since being diagnosed with a debilitating autoimmune disorder.

Tony Lima. Screenshot via Greater Wilton Manors, YouTube.