The annual benefit for Bluewater Surrender, nonprofit based in Tavernier, will be held at Bud N Mary’s Marina on Saturday, May 10. Bluewater Surrender is led by Gail and Ted Gordon and provides a safe house for abandoned and abused children in Guatemala, Casa Agua Azul (home of blue water), on Lake Izabal in Guatemala.
To the children, the home provides healing, education, love and a new life. Their past experiences are heartbreaking. Many were cast out onto the streets through no fault of their own, left to fend for themselves, vulnerable to unimaginable dangers.
Since opening their doors, more than 43 children have found respite and care at Casa Agua Azul. There are currently 10 children who call Casa Agua Azul their permanent home, having been at the home since 2019, they will stay until they reach the age of 18. There will be many more children who will come as the poverty and dangers to children in Guatemala remain. Bluewater is committed to welcoming each one into a home filled with love and safety.
Their staff includes a full-time teacher, social worker and a psychologist who work tirelessly toward the goal of holistic healing. They are not there to provide just shelter over their heads, but to place a roof over their hearts so they may grow into productive and joyful members of society, rooted in love, and purpose — capable of doing great things and making the world a better place.
Local families and groups from the Keys have traveled to Casa Agua Azul in Guatemala, and as they reach out to serve, they find themselves transformed in the process. This life-changing experience strengthens their own faith and builds compassion, inspiring others to get involved through service.
For over 10 years, Richard Stanczyk and his family at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina have hosted Bluewater’s annual fundraiser. This year’s event, Hula for Hope, promises to be a joyful celebration that will include dinner, live entertainment, silent auction and a beautiful sunset in the heart of the Keys. More importantly, an evening that will change lives here and in Guatemala.
Tickets for attending Hula for Hope on Saturday, May 10 can be found at www.bluewatersurrender.org/. Tickets must be purchased in advance by Monday, May 5. Questions pertaining to donations, support or visiting Casa Agua Azul can be emailed to info@bluewatersurrender.org.
