FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept 1, 2021) – As of August 21, 2021, The Uncommon Friends Foundation partnered with Michael and Karen Gavala of G3 Catering who will take on the responsibility of overseeing and managing event operations, event bookings, catering and bar services for the Burroughs Home and Gardens, a riverfront property located at 2505 First Street in downtown Fort Myers. This beautiful, historic Georgian era home has hosted many elite social gatherings in the early 1900s and, more recently, has been the home to many weddings and events. It is well known for not only its history, but also its beautiful gardens, cascading oaks, and breathtaking riverfront views.
With 40+ years of catering and hospitality experience, the Gavalas plan to expand the home’s current offerings to include more gala’s, fundraisers, musical and art events, interactive live cooking dinners, wine dinners and a host of other themed, special events throughout the year.
“We are looking forward to our partnership with The Uncommon Friends Foundation. Our experience in the hospitality industry paired with the home’s prime, riverfront location, Gale McBride Pavilion and natural beauty is destined to be one of Fort Myers most sought-after destinations for weddings and special events. We have a lot in store for the future. As James D. Newton once said, ‘The Best is Yet to Be!’” said Mike Gavala, Owner/Chef, G3 Catering.
“The Uncommon Friends Foundation has found an exceptional partner in G3 catering. Mike and Karen Gavala will bring their expertise, creativity, and sterling reputation to future events at the Burroughs Home and Gardens. We look forward to an enduring relationship with G3 and the hosting of many “Uncommon” events at our outstanding venue,” Heather Fitzenhagen, Executive Director of the Uncommon Friends Foundation, said.
A spirit of adventure, a sense of purpose and a commitment to positive values and unending personal growth are the building blocks of the Uncommon Friends Foundation Inc. These noble personality traits were exhibited by some of the greatest men of the 20th century – Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Harvey Firestone, Alexis Carrel and Charles Lindbergh – and were elaborated on by author Jim Newton, who dubbed this band of visionaries his “Uncommon Friends.”
The Uncommon Friends Foundation’s purpose is to inspire future leaders towards excellence of character, a spirit of innovation, and a sense of purpose. The Foundation’s scholarship program has awarded almost 500 scholarships to students in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry Counties who have a financial need, the potential to succeed, and demonstrate a spirit of adventure, a sense of purpose, a commitment to unending personal improvement, and a commitment to help others.
About Uncommon Friends Foundation
Founded in 1993 to carry out the generational values of Fort Myers, the Uncommon Friends Foundation is dedicated to lifelong character-building among today’s youth and business leaders, as it inspires future leaders toward excellence of character, a spirit of innovation and a sense of purpose. It is located at the historic Burroughs Home & Gardens on the waterfront in downtown Fort Myers, offering a sheltered pavilion and dazzling water views for public and private events as well as year-round tours. For more information, call 239-337-9503.