Paying homage to the past 25 years of accomplishments , this year ’ s Fund a Need , “ Fund the Future ,” brought in on-the-spot contributions of over $ 5.8 million to support all seven of NCEF ’ s strategic initiatives , including Early Learning , Healthcare , Hunger , Mental Health , Oral Health , Out-of-School Time and Vision . Every dollar donated during this heart-felt call to action will go to support underprivileged children in Collier County with a holistic approach focusing on the wellbeing of the whole child and support the continued success of their collective impact projects .
The 2025 Naples Winter Wine Festival kicked off Thursday morning with Vintage Cellar , a pre-festival tasting and luncheon . This year , the Festival honored Count Louis-Michel and Countess Constance Liger-Belair , owners of the legendary Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair wine estate in Burgundy , France , as 2025 Honored Vintners and Angelo Auriana , the innovative celebrity chef behind The Factory Kitchen and BRERA Ristorante , as 2025 Chef de Cuisine .
On Friday , Festival attendees got the opportunity to witness first-hand the life-changing impact of the NWWF during the annual Meet the Kids Day . The morning culminated in heartfelt presentations showcasing remarkable success stories that NCEF ’ s grants have made possible , followed by a catered luncheon highlighting fabulous wines presented by acclaimed vintners .
The night before Saturday ’ s Live Auction , 20 award-winning chefs , over 20 renowned vintners and 19 of the world ’ s elite featured sommeliers paired off to prepare exquisite , intimate dinners at the elegant , private homes of Festival Trustees and other exclusive settings throughout Naples .
Using the funds raised from this year ’ s auction , NCEF will award grants to local organizations and fund strategic initiatives supporting Collier County children in need on March 17 , 2025 .
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 23