The Arc Gateway’s premier holiday gala, Wreaths of Joy, returns on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Brownsville Community Center. This festive event will celebrate the season with an elegant evening of beautifully handcrafted wreaths, captivating silent and live auctions, gourmet seasonal bites, and an open bar – all in support of The Arc Gateway’s mission of empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Attendees of Wreaths of Joy will be immersed in a magical holiday atmosphere filled with festive elegance. Dozens of unique, hand-crafted wreaths for all occasions will serve as the centerpiece of the gala’s auctions. Guests can participate in both a silent and live auction, bidding on beautifully crafted wreaths and exclusive gift packages. Adding to the merriment, the evening will feature live entertainment and special performances to enchant and inspire the crowd. Throughout the night, attendees will also enjoy gourmet seasonal bites and an open bar to toast the holiday spirit.
As The Arc Gateway’s signature fundraising event, Wreaths of Joy directly supports the nonprofit’s programs that serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. All proceeds from the gala will benefit The Arc Gateway, helping the organization provide vital services that improve the quality of life for those it supports.
Funds raised will specifically support programs like the Pearl Nelson Child Development Center, which offers pediatric therapy and early intervention services for children with developmental delays and disabilities. By attending and contributing to Wreaths of Joy, supporters are helping provide life-changing therapies, education, and resources to individuals who rely on The Arc Gateway’s services. This event underscores the true meaning of the season – coming together as a community to uplift others.
The success of Wreaths of Joy is driven by strong community involvement and generous sponsors. The Zimmern Team, a major supporter of the event and long-time champion of The Arc Gateway’s cause is looking forward to another year serving on the board of The Arc Gateway.
“Our commitment to this community runs deep. At The Zimmern Team, we believe every member of our community deserves support, dignity, and opportunity. It’s why I serve as a Board Member, and why Sarah Grace Lykins, a valued member of our team, serves as a Board Trustee. Giving back isn’t just something we do on The Zimmern Team, it’s part of who we are.” — Tonya Zimmern
Their active leadership on the board reflects a hands-on dedication to the organization’s mission. Their involvement, alongside many other local businesses and individuals, helps ensure the gala’s success and amplifies its impact on those The Arc Gateway serves.
Wreaths of Joy Gala promises an unforgettable evening of holiday cheer for a great cause. Event details are as follows:
- When: Friday, December 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Brownsville Community Center – 3200 West De Soto Street, Pensacola, FL 32505
- What: Holiday gala featuring a handcrafted wreath auction (silent & live), seasonal culinary bites, open bar, and live entertainment.
- Why: To benefit The Arc Gateway’s programs supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Tickets: A limited number of single tickets are available for purchase. Guests can secure their tickets online at wreathsofjoy.org. Early purchase is encouraged, as this event traditionally draws a large crowd of supporters.
Sponsorships and Wreath Donations: Local businesses and individuals are invited to further support the cause through sponsorship opportunities.
Sponsoring Wreaths of Joy is a chance to align with one of the area’s most respected charities and gain recognition at the event. Additionally, community members with a creative touch can contribute by donating a handcrafted wreath to the auction.
Wreath donations (of all themes and styles) are being accepted through November 14, 2025 for inclusion in the gala’s auction. These donated wreaths will help spread joy and bolster the fundraising total. Interested sponsors or wreath donors can contact The Arc Gateway for details on how to get involved.
For more information about Wreaths of Joy, sponsorship inquiries, or program details, please visit wreathsofjoy.org or The Arc Gateway’s official website. Together, the community’s support will make this year’s Wreaths of Joy a heartwarming celebration of inclusion and generosity.
About The Arc Gateway
The Arc Gateway is a Pensacola-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Founded in 1954, The Arc Gateway has spent nearly 70 years helping people with disabilities lead fuller, more independent lives through a variety of high-quality programs and services. Our mission is to provide the best possible life experiences for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities . Each year, The Arc Gateway supports over 1,200 children and adults across the community, offering resources such as early childhood intervention, education, vocational training, residential support, and family counseling. By empowering those it serves and educating the public, The Arc Gateway creates opportunities for inclusion, growth, and joy – truly embodying its vision of a community where everyone can thrive.
