A Night of Gratitude and Hope: JED’s Fifth Annual Florida Gala Raises Over $375,000

The Jed Foundation (JED) hosted its fifth annual Florida Gala on Oct. 26, bringing together 150 dedicated supporters at The Ray Hotel to celebrate and advance JED’s mission to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. This year’s event raised over $375,000 to help JED continue its work with over 1,200 schools, districts, and campuses nationwide. 

“The Jed Foundation is deeply grateful for the passion, advocacy, and dedication of our Florida friends and community members,” John MacPhee, JED CEO, said about the event. “Your support enables us to continue our critical work in schools, connecting students who may be struggling with lifesaving resources.”

JED’s programs and resources currently reach over 6.5 million students, over 230,000 of whom attend nine schools across Florida. 

Honoring Champions of Mental Health

The gala was more than just an opportunity to raise funds to support JED’s critical work — it was a moment to acknowledge remarkable individuals who embody JED’s mission and commitment to youth mental health. Scott Galloway, an author, entrepreneur, and professor of marketing at New York University’s Stern School of Business, received the Champion of Mental Health Award. JED also recognized NFP, an Aon company and host of the gala, with the Corporate Leadership Award for its unwavering commitment to advancing the well-being of young people.

Areli Rosales, a first-generation college sophomore at the University of Texas at San Antonio, podcast host, and a mental health peer advocate, received JED’s 2024 undergraduate Student Voice of Mental Health Award. Rosales was also honored at the gala.

Florida-based comedian Nik Macik opened the event, and Dr. Ralph Maurer, the Head of School at Oxbridge Academy in West Palm Beach, a JED High School, spoke about the positive impact that has come from the school’s partnership with JED. 

Join Us in This Lifesaving Work

JED thanks its supporters, event sponsors, and partners for a memorable evening and their dedication to protecting and uplifting U.S. teens and young adults. 

To view photos from the gala, click here. 

To support JED’s transformative work, visit jedfoundation.org/donate/.