Gala to Bring Transformational Healing to Child Abuse Survivors

The Child Protection Center (CPC) will host the 13th Annual Blue Ties & Butterflies gala on Friday, April 10^th of 2026 at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, bringing the community together for an inspiring evening dedicated to healing and hope for survivors of child abuse.
 
The signature fundraising event supports CPC’s mission of over 45 years – to prevent, intervene in, and treat child abuse across Sarasota and DeSoto counties. This year’s event will feature former elite gymnast Emily Meinke, who will share her journey from victim to survivor after testifying against U.S. Olympic doctor Larry Nassar, highlighting the momentous power we each have in prevention.
 
Held during Child Abuse Prevention Month, Blue Ties & Butterflies celebrates the transformational healing journey of children served by CPC. The event’s name reflects two powerful symbols: the blue ribbon, the national symbol of child abuse awareness and prevention; and the butterfly, symbolizing a child abuse victim's transformational journey from victim, to survivor, to one who thrives. A previous client of CPC’s therapy programs said, “[Therapy] at the Child Protection Center didn’t just change my life — it saved it. Your donation creates healing. It restores hope. It gives survivors the tools to rise, rebuild, and reclaim their lives — just like I did.”
 
The evening will begin with a cocktail reception followed by an elegant dinner, live and silent auctions, the chance to win a Rolex, and a celebration of music and dancing as we commemorate all that our community makes possible in protecting vulnerable children.
 
Each year, the Child Protection Center responds to more than 3,200 reports of child abuse and neglect across Sarasota and DeSoto counties, addressing a growing crisis in our community. The Blue Ties and Butterflies gala serves as a beacon of hope for victims, offering a chance to raise essential funding for the nonprofit’s services.
 
“Blue Ties & Butterflies is a powerful reminder that when a community comes together, we can create life-changing opportunities for children who have experienced trauma,” said Douglas Staley, CPC’s Executive Director. “Every guest, sponsor, and supporter plays a vital role in helping children find safety, healing, and the chance to thrive.”
 
Event Details:

• Blue Ties & Butterflies Gala: Friday, April 10, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
• The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota: 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL
• Dress code: Guests are encouraged to attend in cocktail or formal attire.
• Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at: https://cpcsarasota.org/events/blue-ties-butterflies/
• Presented by Bill & Karen Merrill, Graci & Dennis McGillicuddy, and Jerry & Fay Bainbridge, in partnership with Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold and Sydney & Madison Koffman.