An Enchanting Afternoon Unveils Open Arms Center
As midday sprinkles gave way to balmy sunshine, the inaugural Open Arms Center fundraiser gave attendees a special look at the agency earlier this afternoon in Miami Springs.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
Open Arms Center is grateful for the support of everyone that came out and is thrilled to hear the wonderful feedback about the fundraiser from everyone.
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| [Photograph by Thomas Jimenez] |
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
An eclectic and mouth-watering array of Asian-fusion food was served and the place-setting was the richly-textured backdrop of an enchanting garden.
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| [Photograph by Thomas Jimenez] |
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
Open Arms Center is very grateful to all of the individuals and businesses that generously gave their support to the first-ever OAC Fundraiser which includes but is not limited to:
- Costco of Miami
- Winn Dixies of California Club and NW 112 Street & 7 Avenue
- Mama Jennie's Italian Restaurant
- and more
We are also very appreciative of Haitianista and Rasha Cameau for coming out and setting up a booth offering a dazzling array of authentic, made-in-Haiti jewelry, art, and more.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
Another highlight of the Open Arms Center fundraiser was a charming mix of music provided by the talented and hard-working Stanley Thevenin.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
As if all of the scrumptious treats enjoyed by guests were not enough, Karen at Enchanting Creations personalized designer cakes provided a cake whose stunning look was only eclipsed by its sublime taste and texture.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
Guests were all captivated by the dazzling hues and sizes and shapes of the garden.
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| [Photograph by Thomas Jimenez] |
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
The garden setting for the Open Arms Center fundraiser was the ideal backdrop for a fascinating and intimate introduction to aromatherapy, provided by psychotherapist Anita.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
The Open Arms Center fundraiser also offered attendees introductions to art therapy and music therapy. Roslyn's informal seminar on art therapy explored different ways that artistic exploration and expression can offer therapeutic support. Marc Joseph of Ayabonmbe was also on hand to demonstrate and educate how music, too, can offer help with something as simple and universal as a drum.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
As an added treat, fundraiser attendees were given a special parting gift: Marc having an impromptu jam session with fast-rising star musician Jowee Omicil who also came to offer his support. Open Arms Center was already a big fan of Jowee's before the fundraiser and as we bade "See you all again soon!" to our guests, that sentiment was only cemented further.
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| [Photograph by José Pérez] |
As stated above, Open Arms Center is very, very grateful to so many people that helped make our first fundraiser a success in so many different ways. We look forward to your continued support and friendship and for all of the wonderful people that were not able to make it today, fret not - with all of your help, Open Arms Center is only just getting started!
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| [Photograph by Thomas Jimenez] |
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| [Photograph by Thomas Jimenez] |
We love you all!
