PALM COAST, Fla. – Belting out hit after hit, laughter, music, and community spirit filled the Red Clover in European Village as residents from across Flagler County gathered for Karaoke for a Cause, a fundraiser benefiting the Family Life Center, the county’s certified domestic violence and sexual assault center.
The event drew a packed crowd eager to support survivors while enjoying an evening of entertainment, friendship, and a long line of memorable performances singing everything from Vanilla Ice to Neil Diamond as Thomas Media Solutions kept the good times going.
For Dr. Trish Giaccone, Executive Director of the Family Life Center, the evening represented far more than a night of karaoke.
“Oh, Karaoke for Our Cause was a huge success, and honestly, it really supports the mission directly with survivors and making sure that they have basic needs,” Giaccone said.
As nonprofits across the country face uncertainty surrounding federal funding, Giaccone acknowledged that the Family Life Center is still awaiting details about its future budget.
“We are actually still waiting to hear our final budget, so probably, but we just don’t know yet,” she said when asked about the potential impact of funding cuts.
In the meantime, she encouraged community members to continue supporting the organization’s work.
“Please donate. Share times, treasures, talents. Look at our website and get some information or give us a call.”
Among those celebrating the event’s success was Flagler County Commissioner Pam Richardson, who serves on the Family Life Center Board of Directors and has long championed services for survivors and vulnerable families.
“Well, I’m on the board of directors for Family Life Center. It’s my passion to do whatever I can for those people who haven’t been able to get out of the hole that they’re in, and I want to see everybody here live a happy, full, fulfilling life. So, I’m here to participate for as long as I can.”
Richardson was thrilled by the energy and enthusiasm displayed throughout the evening.
“Oh, what a great turnout. I was so happy to see everyone. There were groups singing, everybody, even people who don’t sing were singing, and it was awesome. It was great. And everybody had a joyous time. We really did celebrate tonight.”
The celebration was made even more memorable when attendees surprised Richardson with a rendition of “Happy Birthday”.
“Besides, it was the day after my birthday, and then they sang me happy birthday. So that was even funnier,” she said with a laugh.
Reflecting on the event, Richardson said the evening showcased what makes Flagler County special.
“Our community is put together this way. We care for each other, we take care of each other, we respect each other. We treat each other with love and respect, and it’s my honor to do what I do today, and everyday.”
The event was organized with the help of fellow board member Palm Coast City Councilwoman Theresa Pontieri, who was equally enthusiastic about the overwhelming support shown by the community.
“The event was an amazing night of giving, laughing, and a lot of fun!” Pontieri said. “The Family Life Center of Flagler County provides hope, support, and opportunity to families throughout our community.”
