Denise S. Fraile, First Lady of Families First, is the event chair. -CAPEHART / COURTESY PHOTO

Following a record-breaking year of fundraising and community partnerships, Families First of Palm Beach County is preparing for its milestone 20th Anniversary Luncheon, building on more than three decades of helping children and families thrive through prevention, early intervention, behavioral health, and family support programs.

Since 1990, Families First has served more than 61,000 children and family members, helping them build safe, stable homes before challenges become crises. The organization reaches more than 3,200 children and adults annually through evidence-based programs that strengthen parenting, improve behavioral health, support young children and families, and provide housing and community support for those facing adversity.

Philanthropist and nonprofit leader Denise Fraile will return for a fourth consecutive year as the Chair of the annual luncheon and the First Lady of Families First.  Fraile has become one of the organization’s most recognizable volunteer leaders, playing a pivotal role in transforming the luncheon into one of Palm Beach County’s premier philanthropic events.

“Families First represents something incredibly important to our community,” says Fraile.  “Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing home. What inspires me most about this organization is that we don’t simply respond to crises—we work every day to help prevent them. When families receive the right support early, children have the opportunity to thrive, parents gain confidence, and entire communities become stronger

Jennifer Nawrocki is the Families First Development Committee Chair. -CAPEHART / COURTESY PHOTO

During her tenure, the luncheon experienced record fundraising growth, increased corporate engagement, expanded media visibility, and attracted many of Palm Beach County’s most influential civic and business leaders.

Joining Fraile is luncheon Committee Chair Jennifer Nawrocki, and volunteer leadership committee members Rita Marchinski, Adrienne Raptis, Kristen Tassone Caffelle, and Taylor Materio.

“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this luncheon, we’re also celebrating the remarkable community that has made its success possible,” Fraile adds. “Every sponsor, volunteer, donor, committee member, and attendee has played a role in changing lives, and together we’re building an even brighter future for Palm Beach County’s children and families.”

Emmy Award-winning television journalist and longtime Palm Beach County media personality Toni May will return as Media Ambassador and emcee.

Fraile will once again partner with fellow Families First Board Member Jordan Goldman, Chief Executive Officer of Castle Group. Together, Fraile and Goldman cultivate strategic corporate partnerships that expand the organization’s reach, increase public awareness, and generate critical support for Families First’s mission.

This year’s luncheon will recognize three individuals and organizations whose leadership and generosity have made a lasting impact throughout Palm Beach County.

The Harriet Goldstein Award will be presented to Julie Rudolph in recognition of her extraordinary volunteer leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to serving the community.

The Heart Hero Award will honor Susan Kaplan, whose compassion, generosity, and dedication embody the spirit of Families First’s mission.

The Castle Group Corporate Impact Award will be presented to Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) in recognition of its outstanding commitment to corporate citizenship, employee volunteerism, and strengthening communities throughout Palm Beach County.

“The individuals and organizations we honor each year remind us of what is possible when leadership is matched with compassion,” Fraile said. “Their commitment to giving back inspires others to become involved and demonstrates the extraordinary impact we can achieve when our community comes together.”

The 20th Annual Families First of Palm Beach County Luncheon will be held on November 6, at the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Sponsorship opportunities, underwriting packages, honorary committee participation, and tickets are now available. For more, visit familiesfirstpbc.org.