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Published: December 17 2013

Matthew Brennan, Judith Rivera and Michelle Zimmer from Covenant House with Frost-Tree the Snowman, winner of the $1,000 donation. FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The first ever HANDY’S Festival of Trees event at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale raised nearly $10,000.  A dazzling array of 20 bedazzled trees, courtesy of Hayes Farms Christmas Trees, were decorated by local businesses and charities to be auctioned off to the highest bidders.

“We are thrilled by the outpouring of support by local businesses and fellow not-for-profit organizations, which helped to bring this festive holiday event to life,” said Beth Bryant, director of development for HANDY.  “This effort not only supported HANDY’S mission to embrace, educate and empower vulnerable youth, but it also raised much needed funds and awareness for HANDY and other vital organizations this holiday season.”

Almost 150 guests enjoyed live music, wine and a signature egg nog, a variety of tasty food selections and a silent action. The highlight of the event was viewing the uniquely themed 9’ live trees adorned with beautiful ornaments and other decorative elements.

A panel of judges selected “Frost-Tree the Snowman” presented by Young Professionals for Covenant House as the winner of a $1,000 donation.  “A Picasso Christmas” presented by DeGeorge Boys & Girls Clubs was selected as the People’s Choice Winner, and was awarded a $500 dining certificate courtesy of Truluck’s Fort Lauderdale.

Other organizations which benefited from this seasonal event include Fort Lauderdale Children’s Theatre, The Girl Choir of South Florida and Jack & Jill Children’s Center.  HANDY’S Festival of Trees was sponsored in part by The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale,  Broward Sheriff’s Office, Cliff Floyd, Dean Kretschmar, Gunster, HANDY's Next Generation Committee, Hayes Farms Christmas Trees, McCormick Distilling, Inc., Moss Construction Managers, Premier Beverage and Weber.  Dr. Patty's Dental Boutique and other local businesses provided silent auction and raffle items.

About HANDY

HANDY’s mission is to embrace, educate and empower vulnerable youth to become engaged and productive adults.  Founded in 1985, HANDY has met the needs of more than 50,000 Broward County children and youth in foster and relative / non-relative care and annually serves more than 1,200 at-risk children between the ages of birth – 25 years.

About The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale

The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, recognized as one of South Florida's premier shopping destinations for its sophisticated level of merchandising and ambiance, is the largest and most upscale regional mall in Broward County. Neiman Marcus, Macy’s and Dillard’s anchor the popular center, which also features 100 specialty stores including Abercrombie & Fitch, America Eagle Outfitters, Apple, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Coach, Cole Haan, Guess, J. Crew, Michael Kors and Pottery Barn. It is also home to Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa and a fine roster of dining establishments such as Seasons 52, The Capital Grille, Truluck’s, P.F. Chang’s and Blue Martini. Just steps away from Fort Lauderdale’s world famous beach, it is located minutes from the airport, port, downtown, hotels and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center with easy access from Sunrise Boulevard, U.S. Highway 1 (Federal Highway), Interstate 95, Interstate 595, and U.S. Highway A1A (Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard). Located at 2414 East Sunrise Blvd., it is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Mon. through Sat. and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sun. Restaurants enjoy later hours. More information is available by calling (954) 564-1036 or at www.galleriamall-fl.com.