Our Power Table Event delivers high-value content with 2 expert speakers, plus time for meaningful networking, and a complimentary light breakfast. Your ticket? Only $10.00.
Power Play Alert! Be one of the first 3 to sign up with code POWER and get your admission FREE! Don’t miss out—spots are limited.
Register below:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-power-table-2
Join Faye’s Pillars of Hope and Babes Booze & Business for a fun-filled evening of swapping clothes and networking with amazing women. Bring your gently used clothes to swap, and any items that don’t find a new home will be donated to a local shelter.
Halloween costumes are optional, so feel free to get into the spirit if you’d like!
We’re also collecting kids’ clothing to donate to Friendship Elementary School, so please bring any you’d like to contribute.
It’s a great chance to refresh your closet, meet new people, and give back to the community! We can’t wait to see you there!
We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us for our Thrive & Connect event! Your presence, energy, and support made the gathering truly special.
Thank you to Bake Chop Catering & Events for being a Gold Tier Sponsor! Taylor you are heaven sent and we thank you for all of your help!
So excited to announce our nonprofit highlight for Heart of The City Gala.
Volusia County Women Who Care (VCWWC)
I am so inspired by this amazing organization.
VCWWC Mission
The mission of VCWWC is to make a difference in the lives of individuals in Volusia County, Florida, by raising money through its members and community partners and directing their quarterly donations, and matching grants to a qualified 501(C)(3) selected by its members.
Volusia County Women Who Care (VCWWC) has created a powerful ripple effect of generosity and community transformation since its founding in 2017. Through collective giving, more than 350 women have come together to raise and distribute over $600,000 to local nonprofits, strengthening organizations that provide critical services such as food security, healthcare, housing, education, and support for vulnerable families. In addition to direct financial impact, VCWWC has elevated awareness of local needs, inspired new partnerships, and encouraged members to deepen their engagement as volunteers, advocates, and community leaders. By uniting women around the shared mission of giving back, VCWWC not only addresses urgent challenges but also fosters a legacy of collaboration, compassion, and lasting change across Volusia County.
Get your ticket to a night to remember:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/heart-of-the-city-gala
Thank you to our sponsors!
Holly Bluff Resort Marina is donating a full day Pontoon boat rental as one of our silent auction items!
Holly Bluff Marina thank you for your support!
Thank you to Rose Villa in Ormond Beach for donating a $200 date night certificate! Perfect for a couple night out for dinner!
Get your tickets!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/heart-of-the-city-gala
Support a great cause and grab our exclusive Journal & Pen Set, beautifully designed and packaged with purpose.
What’s Included:
– Custom Journal
– Matching Pen
– Special Edition Packaging
Only $21.99 (plus shipping)
Free Local Pickup Available!
Every purchase helps us continue spreading hope. Thank you for your support!
Janae Ponder, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker based in Deltona, Florida, licensed in Florida, North Carolina, and New Hampshire. She is the founder of Life-Spire Counseling Services, LLC, a thriving mental health practice. She also leads Life-Spire Community Services, Inc., a nonprofit designed to close mental health gaps in West Volusia County through free and reduced-cost services, therapist training, and mental health advocacy.
Her creative work includes Coloring Books for the Soul and her book 100 Bold Affirmations to Calm Your Fears, along with a companion journal. She regularly hosts events such as the BIPOC Mental Health Fair and Therapist Sip & Supports, bringing professionals and community members together to reduce stigma and increase access.
Janae’s work is rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and the belief that healing is both personal and communal. Through every session, event, and conversation, she works to create spaces where people feel seen, safe, and inspired to grow.
Help us celebrate Janae at the Heart of The City Gala
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/heart-of-the-city-gala
Originally hailing from New York City, Christen Gandy is now a beloved local with a passion for civic duty!
She serves on the Board of Directors for the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber of Commerce, as President of the West Volusia Kiwanis, and Event Director for the Barberville Pioneer Settlement. She is also a devotee of the arts, having opened the Arthur Murray Orange City Dance Studio as Studio Director/Certified Ballroom Dance Instructor and played the role of ‘Cha-Cha’ in the 2025 record-breaking run of Grease! at the Athens Theatre in DeLand.
She is a vibrant soul with infectious energy and a heart devoted to uplifting the community.
Help us celebrate Christen at the Heart of The City Gala
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/heart-of-the-city-gala
Carlee Mckinney serves as the Partner Development Coordinator for the West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority and was recognized as a 2024 40 Under 40 honoree. Dedicated to community engagement and regional growth, she sat on the board of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Carlee is currently a board member for the following organizations River 2 Sea Loop Alliance, and Florida Black Bear. She is also actively involved with the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor, contributing her expertise to preserve and promote the area’s cultural and natural heritage.
Help us celebrate Carlee at the Heart of The City Gala
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/heart-of-the-city-gala
