Raise a Glass for Opportunity Place

The Magnolia Grill Restaurant in Fort Walton will be the location of the upcoming “RAISE A GLASS: A WINE AND CHEESE” event in honor of Opportunity Place, a temporary shelter for women and families who are homeless.

Thanks to the generosity of Magnolia Grill owners, Tom and Peggy Rice, the Sunday afternoon affair will be held on October 29, from 2:00 – 4:00 in their restaurant at 157 Brooks Street in Fort Walton Beach. A variety of wines and a large selection of food will be served.

“We had a packed house when we were fortunate to have this “Raise a Glass” event once before,” said Opportunity Place Executive Director Debra McDaniel.  “If the money raised is the yard stick of success, this will be a success and everyone will have a great time.”

The organization’s Board of Directors are sponsoring sponsor baskets for the Silent Auction, which are valued at $50-$100.  “Our Board members are hardworking and generous,” noted Cindy Frakes, a member of the board and the lead on the fundraiser, “and consequently we will have some tremendous items for bidding.”

Opportunity Place has been a shelter for over seven years, helping hundreds of families find self-sufficiency and a solid home life.  “This year alone,” said McDaniel, “we have had over 207    individuals, around 60% of whom are children, leave our shelter successfully.  We have served over 25,000 meals and had filled beds over 10,000 nights.  When they leave they have jobs, money in the bank, their children are in school and they are getting much needed services.  It is the kindness and understanding such as the Rice’s that allows our shelter to remain open.”

The public is invited to come and enjoy and “Raise a Glass.” For a $25 tickets, please go on-line at www.opifwb.org or call the office at 850-659-3190. Volunteers are also needed.  Any donations to the shelter may be mailed to: Opportunity Place, 305 Lovejoy Road, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547.