PALM COAST, Fla. – Under sunny skies and accompanied by a refreshing coastal breeze, Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa provided a picture-perfect setting for the ninth annual Taste of the Fun Coast, an evening of food, fellowship and fundraising benefiting Whitney Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Hospital.
Hosted by Flagler Broadcasting, the popular community event brings people together for a cause close to the hearts of Northeast Florida residents, protecting and caring for sea turtles.
“Over the years, we’ve raised probably over $100,000,” said David Ayres, president and general manager of Flagler Broadcasting and host of the event. “What this money does, it gives them the money to spend on things they might need that aren’t funded otherwise.”
Ayres explained that while grants help support the hospital, those funds often come with specific spending requirements. Proceeds from Taste of the Fun Coast help fill the gaps, providing resources for essential equipment and other needs. Past fundraising has helped purchase a turtle X-ray machine, among other items that keep the hospital operating.
“It’s just such a great cause, and they’re such wonderful people,” Ayres said. “I mean, what more—sea turtles? Here we are, Northeast Florida, on the beach.”
Not only is the event a chance to sip and sample some of the area’s best culinary dishes, and an excellent networking opportunity, 100% of the proceeds go directly to the cause according to Ayres.
With community generosity at the heart of the evening, Taste of the Fun Coast continues to demonstrate how a shared love for the coast and its wildlife can make a meaningful difference.
“We’re so appreciative of the support this event receives year after year from sponsors and attendees, especially knowing the impact it makes for the sea turtle hospital,” Ayres said, expressing his gratitude for everyone who came out to support the event. “I think this will be our biggest and best one yet.”
