The 10th anniversary of “Eat Your Heart Out” recently revealed the first wave of participating restaurants for the fundraising event. This popular food and “fun” raiser event occurs from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 12 at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. Eric Yutzy, WPLG Local 10 morning news anchor, will be returning as the host for this year’s milestone event. The event proceeds will go to Heart Gallery of Broward County, a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding loving families for foster youth facing placement challenges. Additionally, Michael Goodman, the founder of GPR | Goodman Public Relations, will be honored as Heart Gallery of Broward County’s Child Advocate of the Year during the signature event. Attendees can also participate in raffle drawings and a silent auction, with a chance to win valuable prizes.
This year’s lineup of participating restaurants for the upcoming event promises to offer guests a delectable array of culinary delights and drinks. Some of the highly anticipated venues on the list include Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Eddie V’s, The Capital Grille, La Fuga, The Todd’s, Tulio’s Tacos & Tequila Bar, Lips Fort Lauderdale, Hellenic Republic, Sicilian Oven, Stoli Group and Sweeter Days Bake Shop. Additional restaurants will be announced as the event draws closer, adding to the lineup.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this momentous year of ‘Eat Your Heart Out,’ marking a decade of dedicated support for our cause and showcasing the outstanding dining establishments in our region,” Dr. Mary Kinirons says, executive director of Heart Gallery of Broward County. “This year, we are proud to honor Michael Goodman, founder of GPR | Goodman Public Relations, as our Child Advocate of the Year. Michael is an exemplary community advocate who prioritizes and raises awareness for our mission to make a positive impact in the lives of foster youth and we look forward to recognizing his achievements.”
Michael Goodman, the founder of GPR | Goodman Public Relations, is being recognized as a trailblazing entrepreneur, community advocate, and philanthropist who has made an indelible impact on South Florida. His marketing expertise is highly respected, and his outstanding contributions have earned him the title of this year’s “Eat Your Heart Out” honoree. His dedication to South Florida is evident in his leadership roles, such as serving as board chair for Neighbors 4 Neighbors, the City of Wilton Manors Community Affairs Advisory Board, and the City of Oakland Park School Advisory Board. Furthermore, he has been an honorary board member, past vice-chair of Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, and a past board member of Arc Broward, Junior Achievement, Family Central, and Gilda’s Club. Michael’s commitment to the community is truly inspiring, and his legacy will live on for many years. Other notable honors bestowed include the 2022 GFLCC Small Business of the Year Award, the 2022 ArtsUnited Award for his philanthropic efforts in the arts, and the South Florida Business and Wealth Diversity & Innovation Award.
“I am humbled to receive this prestigious honor from Heart Gallery of Broward, an organization that is truly special and unique,” Goodman says. “Giving back is my joy and my team and I are proud to support local causes that matter. If Heart Gallery places any child in a loving home, then we have made a huge difference, together.”
The Heart Gallery of Broward County was established in 2007 as a traveling photography exhibit featuring foster youth needing permanent adoption. Over the years, the organization has expanded its efforts. It now works closely with ChildNet and various local foster care providers to find adoptive families and other connections for these children. Celebrating its 10th year, the Heart Gallery event has become the organization’s largest and most successful fundraiser, benefiting the children and families it serves and the entire community.
Tickets are now on sale. Early bird tickets are $100 per person through Aug. 30. Beginning Aug. 31, tickets will be $150 per person. Complimentary valet parking is included. For sponsor opportunities or more details, call (954) 918-3008 or mary@heartgalleryofbroward.org.
Photo Credit: Michael Murphy Photography
