Sold out Greater Naples Chamber gala raises transformational funds to support Chamber, Leadership Collier Foundation
The Greater Naples Chamber celebrated a successful evening at its signature annual gala, The Spirit of Naples: Celebrating Our City, Community and Country. The event raised nearly $487,750 to support the Chamber and Leadership Collier Foundation.
Presented by Lee Health, the sold-out event, held on April 16 at The Club at Olde Cypress, brought together business and community leaders from across Collier County for an evening of connection, celebration and philanthropy. Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail reception with live music, followed by a formal dinner and program highlighting the Chamber’s ongoing work to strengthen the local business community. The Spirit of Naples theme highlighted the region’s unique character while celebrating local pride and community connection.
“This year’s gala was a true reflection of the spirit of Naples, bringing together leaders who are deeply committed to our community’s success,” said Kristina Park, president and CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber. “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our attendees and sponsors. Their support will allow us to continue to advance our mission of cultivating economic opportunity through advocacy, education and leadership.”
Former Naples Mayor Bill Barnett served as the auctioneer for a lively paddle raise to support the Leadership Collier Foundation, an affiliate of the Greater Naples Chamber. Following an inspirational testimonial from Michael Wynn, president of Sunshine Ace Hardware and a graduate of the Leadership Collier Class of 2008, guests raised more than $274,000 during a paddle raise to support the Leadership Collier Foundation.
“This strong support is a testament to the impact the Leadership Collier continues to have across our community,” said Park. “These contributions will help sustain and grow our programming while expanding scholarship opportunities, ensuring more individuals have access to the experience and can step into leadership roles that benefit Collier County.”
The evening also honored Scott Lutgert as the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year, recognizing his lasting contributions and leadership within the Naples community.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am to be a part of the legacy of all the people who have been given the Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year award,” said Lutgert. “I really appreciate the award. But nothing happens without teamwork. We can all make a difference.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit LCF’s leadership development programs, including Leadership Collier and Associate Leadership Collier, which equip participants with the knowledge, connections and skills needed to address key community challenges and opportunities.
For more information on the Greater Naples Chamber and Leadership Collier Foundation, visit napleschamber.org.
About the Greater Naples Chamber
The Greater Naples Chamber is a nonprofit organization of more than 1,000 active members that works to strengthen the local economy and promote the business community. The Chamber accomplishes this through public policy and business advocacy, leadership programs, executive business forums and sessions, and enhanced member benefits and services. The Chamber is dedicated to cultivating economic opportunity for all. For more information, call 239-262-6376 or visit napleschamber.org.