UCP of Central Florida celebrated its 31st Annual Gala and poker tournament in true Hollywood style!


The Annual Gala and Casino Royale Poker Tournament were held at the Caribe Royale Orlando for the second year in a row and hosted by celebrity guests Cheryl Hines from “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Rachael Harris from “The Hangover” and “Suits,” and RJ Mitte from “Breaking Bad.”



Nearly 850 guests attended the gala and showed their support for the nonprofit’s efforts by raising $750,000 to continue providing quality education, support and therapy services to 3,500 UCP students across Central Florida.


This year’s gala theme, “Back to the Movies,” featured appearances by characters from Back to the Future, Wizard of Oz, Barbie, Ghostbusters, and Frankenstein.



The fundraising activities were also an opportunity to honor dedicated supporters, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings with the Champion for Children Award, Matern with the Jackie Bailes Legacy Award and Insurance Office of America with the Jack Holloway Star of Gratitude Award.



“Each year our poker tournament and gala help us raise money to continue build a brighter future for our students,” said Dr. Ilene Wilkins, CEO and President of UCP. “We are thankful for the generosity of everyone who came out, and we are reminded of the profound impact we can achieve when our community comes together in support of a common cause.”



This year’s celebrity poker players included Cheryl Hines, Rachael Harris and RJ Mitte, as well as local celebrities Michelle Morgan (WKMG), Johnny Magic (XL 106.7), Ryan Bingham (Yellowstone), Hassie Harrison (Yellowstone) Daralene Jones (WFTV), Ian Cassette (Fox 35), and Ryan Elijah (Fox 35). The poker tournament winners were Adam Mackoul in first place, Wendy Rouadi in second place and Randy Werder in third place.



For gala photos, click here.



For more information, visit www.ucpcfl.org.



About UCP of Central Florida:

For more than 60 years, UCP of Central Florida has provided vital services for children and families touched by disabilities. UCP is a national leader in inclusive education, support and therapy by creating a consortium of charter schools for children with and without disabilities. For more information about UCP of Central Florida, visit www.ucpcfl.org.



Media Contact:

Will Wellons

Wellons Communications

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