FISH of SanCap recently welcomed supporters to a sold-out evening of community and generosity at the go! FISH event, held at Cielo Restaurant. The gathering brought together an intimate group of individuals deeply invested in the work of FISH and the neighbors served through its programs.
Cielo provided a beautiful setting for the evening and was an extraordinary partner in making the event possible. Their generosity and the attentiveness of their team created a warm and welcoming atmosphere where guests could connect, share stories, and celebrate the work of FISH. A special touch to the evening included a dessert presentation decorated with a chocolate fish, a nod to FISH that did not go unnoticed by guests.
The evening’s theme, FISH in Bloom, reflected the growth and renewal taking place across the organization and throughout the island community. Guests heard about the many ways FISH continues to serve neighbors through its four pillar programs—Food Programs, Island-Based Education, Senior Services, and Helping Hands financial assistance—ensuring individuals and families have the support they need to remain safe, healthy, and connected to the community.
Bank of the Islands served as the evening’s premier sponsor, continuing its longstanding commitment to strengthening the island community. Their partnership helped make the event possible and reflects the many ways local organizations and businesses come together in support of FISH.
Guests also participated in a live auction that brought energy and excitement to the evening. The items reflected the generosity of many community partners and supporters. A stunning Roberto Coin diamond necklace was donated by Congress Jewelers. A curated wine collection, assembled and donated by members of the FISH board and advocates, offered guests the opportunity to take home a varied selection of bottles, paired with a charcuterie board experience for 25 guests generously provided by ACT Catering. A private boat outing was donated by longtime islander Billy Kirkland, while A Bit of Bailey’s provided a signed case of Horse Soldier Bourbon also accompanied by a charcuterie board experience for 25 from ACT Catering. An additional bourbon-themed package was donated by private supporters of FISH.
Guiding the auction was well-known island artist Rachel Pierce, who served as auctioneer and brought both enthusiasm and humor to the bidding. The evening was emceed by Eric Pfeifer, who has moderated the go! FISH event since its inception and once again helped keep the evening flowing with warmth and ease.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came through a heartfelt testimonial shared by a former FISH client. She spoke about a time when she found herself raising her infant grandson on her own, struggling to cover rent, utilities, groceries, and medical bills while working multiple jobs just to stay afloat. Through the Helping Hands financial assistance program, FISH provided support and guidance during a time when she felt she was running out of options.
With that support came breathing room and a path forward. Over time, she stabilized her situation, moved out of the Helping Hands program, rebuilt her credit, and purchased a home. Today she continues moving her life forward with renewed stability. Her grandson, now a high school junior in the International Baccalaureate program, is beginning to look ahead to college and is exploring future studies that include nonprofit management and philanthropic giving—an interest shaped by growing up around the work of FISH and the example of neighbors helping neighbors.
Her story offered a powerful reminder that the work of FISH extends well beyond immediate assistance, helping create the conditions for individuals and families to move forward and build lasting futures.
“The story shared that evening reflects something we see every day,” said Maggi Feiner, President & CEO of FISH. “When someone is given the support and time they need to regain their footing, remarkable things can happen. Seeing a family move from crisis to stability, and watching the next generation look toward a future of service to others, is exactly why this work matters.”
FISH also extended thanks to The Sanctuary Golf Club and Kyle Sweet for providing the beautiful outdoor floral arrangements that helped bring the “In Bloom” theme to life. Appreciation was also shared with photographer Shane Antalick for providing professional photography services that captured the spirit of the evening.
The event was made possible through the dedication of the go FISH planning team, including Maggi Feiner, Maria Espinoza, Sheridan Snell, Julie Hayles, Salli Kirkland, Kathy Samson, and Maggie Goldsmith, whose efforts helped bring together a memorable evening in support of FISH and the neighbors it serves.
By the end of the evening, guests left with a deeper understanding of the role FISH plays in the community and the many lives touched through its programs. The go FISH event served as a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors and a reminder that the strength of the islands lies in the people who continue to show up for one another.
Photo Caption: David Lowden, representing sponsor Bank of the Islands, right, with guests Gayle and Karen Deninger and wife Kelly
