by Norma Schwartzberg
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​CAF is a fine organization dedicated to bringing support to people with physical challenges providing programs that help them to immerse themselves into a healthy lifestyle including the right physical activities, a proper diet, mental motivation, love for themselves, and hope for the future. CAF has been around for over 30 years successfully helping individuals who had been injured, and as a result, they were facing serious challenges in life. From toddlers to adults, thousands of people have found hope and authentic support from CAF helping them to overcome tragedies and helping them not only with uplifting programs but also with the adaptive equipment to improve their quality of life forever. This remarkable organization had its fundraiser on September 18th at Casa Cipriani South, to raise funds to continue helping people with disabilities. The evening was a great opportunity to honor outstanding athletes with physical disabilities who have achieved extraordinary achievements. Their stories are exceptional and striking, encouraging others to follow in their footsteps. The evening had terrific weather perfect for enjoying a drink or two on the balcony, not to mention the delicious dinner buffet style including vegetarian options, and great music. There was a “step-and-repeat” for those who wanted to have their picture taken. For those who are not familiar with Casa Cipriani South, it is a venue for events, and parties with four rooms: a cocktail reception room, an outdoor balcony, the ballroom, and the lounge. The evening started with cocktails and a dinner buffet, then the celebration moved to the ballroom for the program while attendees enjoyed coffee and dessert. Amy Freeze, American meteorologist (recently worked for Fox Weather) was the mistress of the ceremony for the gala bringing good news and good weather. Philanthropists Scott and Emily Stackman (https://www.challengedathletes.org/2022heroeshearthope/scott-and-emily-stackman-700-x-900/), who are long time loyal supporters of CAF, were the chairs of this important event. The 2024 honoree was Alan Mnuchin (https://about.sharecare.com/leadership/bod-alangmnuchin/),  who has been supporting CAF since 2007, he is a dedicated volunteer for CAF along with his wife Alessandra and their children Arielle and Liam. Allan is the founder and CEO of Ariliam Group, an investment firm. Special guests were father and son Scott and Tyler Sussman, both diagnosed with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia. Regardless of their physical conditions, both are engaged in various adaptive sports including sled hockey, skiing, and wheelchair basketball. Another special guest was Rosalie Parker who unfortunately lost her limbs after a tragic car accident. Her spirit never was broken, and despite all her physical disabilities, she is a determined young lady who chooses to be active and get better at practicing adapting sports. A live auction took place at the end of the program with very interesting items from trips to sports tickets. Attendees had the opportunity to aid CAF by bidding on great prizes. The celebration did not stop there, after the program guests were invited to enjoy desserts, coffee, and drinks in the cocktail room and on the balcony to enjoy the fabulous weather.
For more information about CAF, and the gala please click on the links.

https://challengedathletes.canto.com/v/HHH/landing?viewIndex=2 
 https://www.challengedathletes.org/