Best Foot Forward Hosts Annual Sole Mates Luncheon
The event at Boca West Country Club raises vital funds to support children in the foster care system.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Best Foot Forward gathered community members at the Boca West Country Club for its annual Sole Mates Luncheon. The event aims to generate financial support for children in foster care through academic coaching and essential resources.
Why it matters
By funding educational and medical assistance, the organization provides a stable path for youth facing family challenges. This support system aims to help participants achieve long-term academic and professional goals.
A former program participant increased her grade-point average from 3.1 to 3.8 before graduating from Florida Atlantic University. Additionally, the same individual secured a $25,000 grant for the organization from her employer.
The players
Best Foot Forward
This nonprofit organization provides academic coaching and support services for children currently in the foster care system.
Jon Dorenbos
He is a former professional football player and magician who performed at the charity event.
Judith Finkel
She is the recipient of the 2024 Anchor Award for her contributions to the organization.
Florida Atlantic University
This public research university in Boca Raton is where program participant Cassie earned her degree in communication studies.
The details
The program provides academic coaching and resources to children in foster care, utilizing a 'Bid From The Heart' segment to encourage donations. During the event, performer Jon Dorenbos entertained guests while Judith Finkel was honored with the 2024 Anchor Award.
Timeline
Judith Finkel received the Anchor Award in 2024.
The Sole Mates Luncheon took place on October 28, 2026.
Market Landscape
This fundraising event mirrors the growing trend of private-public partnerships designed to supplement the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act. These initiatives allow local nonprofits to fill critical gaps in educational support that governmental programs alone often fail to reach.
Residents can support the local foster care community by contributing to the organizations 'Bid From The Heart' fundraising initiatives. These donations directly fund academic coaching and medical care for children who may otherwise lack these vital resources.
The takeaway
Supporting foster care youth through targeted academic coaching can significantly improve long-term educational outcomes. Community members looking to help can prioritize donating to programs that provide measurable support for students.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support youth in our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Boca Raton Tribune.
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Do you believe local community support programs are effective in helping foster youth build stable futures?
