NAPLES — Guadalupe Center will host its annual Elevate Gala on Friday, January 16, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. This year’s theme, “Illuminate the Future,” celebrates the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities, shining a light on the journey of more than 2,000 students in Immokalee who are pursuing lifelong success through Guadalupe Center’s high-quality, transformational programs—from early childhood through college.

Darlene and Don DeMichele of Naples will serve as Gala Chairs for this year’s event. Darlene, a member of Guadalupe Center’s Board of Trustees, brings deep dedication to the organization’s mission. She is the former President of QVC U.S. Commerce, where she was instrumental in driving the company’s exponential growth and expanding its digital platforms. She later led Multi-Channel Management Group LLC, advising retailers and manufacturers on digital strategy, and now serves as Executive Director of Ikatu International, an organization focused on impact investing in sustainable agriculture, affordable housing, and microfinance for women in rural communities. Don, a longtime supporter of Guadalupe Center, is a former executive with The Procter & Gamble Company and Ocean Spray, and now serves as Co-Chairman of Triaxia Partners, a consulting firm that helps Fortune 100 companies develop strategic plans and build high-performing, customer-focused teams.

“We are honored to serve as Gala Chairs and help elevate the life-changing mission of Guadalupe Center,” said Darlene and Don DeMichele. “Every child deserves access to a high-quality education, no matter where they come from. Guadalupe Center is breaking the cycle of poverty by creating real, equitable opportunities for students in Immokalee to learn, thrive, and lead. We invite our community to join us in supporting this transformational work.”

The Elevate Gala is one of the most anticipated fundraising events in Southwest Florida, uniting philanthropic, business, and community leaders. The support of returning presenting sponsor London Bay is instrumental in advancing Guadalupe Center’s mission.

“It’s the unwavering support of our community — individuals, sponsors, and partners — that powers our mission and helps students pursue lifelong success,” said Dawn Montecalvo, President and CEO of Guadalupe Center. “When we come together to invest in education, we’re not just supporting a program — we’re lifting up an entire community. From infancy through college, we walk alongside our students, ensuring they have the tools, guidance, and opportunity to follow their dreams wherever they lead.”

Guests will enjoy an inspiring evening featuring cocktails, dinner, student performances, powerful storytelling, a live auction, and post-event entertainment. A signature highlight of the evening is Jump Up for Education, a high-energy, interactive call to action where guests are invited to ‘jump up’ and make donations that directly fund Guadalupe Center’s educational programs.

The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $750, and Patrón Packages, which include gala tickets and exclusive access to the post-event Patrón Party, begin at $2,000. Customizable sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are also available.

To purchase tickets or become a sponsor, please visit GuadalupeCenter.org/event/guadalupe-center-gala or email Nenaly Patino at NPatino@GuadalupeCenter.org.