Palm Beach, FL — The 2025 Families First of Palm Beach County Annual Luncheon united philanthropic leaders, public officials, and community partners in an inspiring program that raised record-breaking funds to support vital services for children and families across Palm Beach County.

For the third consecutive year, the luncheon was chaired by Lady Denise Fraile, who teamed up with longtime Families First champion Jordan Goldman, CEO of Castle Group, to deliver a high-impact, heart-centered event that reflected their shared passion for strengthening families and building community resilience.

Castle Group — a steadfast supporter of Families First — received the Corporate Impact Award in recognition of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility and its belief that strong businesses help build stronger communities.

“Corporate impact isn’t just about giving back — it’s about stepping forward,” said Jordan Goldman, CEO of Castle Group. “At Castle, we believe our responsibility extends beyond our business to the communities, families, and futures we help shape. Families First embodies that same belief — that when we invest in people, we build the foundation for lasting change.”

The event was masterfully emceed by Toni May, whose warmth, wit, and energy guided the afternoon with grace and heart.

The inspiring program featured a keynote address by His Highness Doctor Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, Global Peace Ambassador, who spoke about unity, compassion, and the collective responsibility of leadership. The event also highlighted Mary Giuseffi and her empowering children’s book, Undeniably Me. Giuseffi authored the story for “Jesse,” the new Families First mascot, who was officially introduced at the luncheon.

The luncheon also celebrated outstanding individuals whose dedication and compassion embody the spirit of our mission. This year’s honorees exemplified the heart and spirit of the organization’s mission. James Rota, recipient of the Heart Hero Award, embodies the kind of generosity that comes from genuine compassion and selflessness, inspiring others through his unwavering commitment to giving back. Taylor Matterio was presented with the Harriet Goldstein Award, which recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to improving the lives of the most at-risk children and families in Palm Beach County. Their dedication and leadership continue to make a profound difference in the community.

A highlight of the program was the spirited auction, where Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Marino emerged as a winning bidder—underscoring her unwavering commitment to the PBC community.

Castle Group proudly served as the Grand Benefactor Sponsor. Their continued commitment, along with the generosity of our Presenting Sponsors—CBIZ, Ciel Jets, Shawn M. Donnelley & Christopher M. Kelly, Florida Power & Light, and Kaufman Rossin—helped make this a record-setting year.

“This year’s luncheon was more than an event — it was a testament to what happens when Palm Beach County unites around compassion,” said Lady Denise Fraile, event chair. “The record-breaking support spoke to a single, shared truth: when we stand together for families, we build stronger futures for everyone. Each life that Families First touches doesn’t just change one story — it breaks the cycle of generational hardship, creating ripples of hope that transform families for generations to come. That’s the power of this mission — every act of generosity becomes a foundation, every partnership a bridge, and every family strengthened becomes part of the legacy we’re building together.”