Automotive Excellence Gala Raises Funds for Broward Youth

The 18th Annual International Automotive Excellence Gala took place on February 22, 2025, at Pier Sixty-Six Resort in Fort Lauderdale, uniting automotive industry leaders to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County (BGCBC). This prestigious event, founded by Rita Case, celebrates outstanding contributions to the automotive sector while generating essential funds for youth development programs.

The evening commenced with an elegant cocktail reception, followed by a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and both silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items. The highlight of the night was the presentation of the Automotive Lifetime Achievement Awards, honoring individuals who have significantly impacted the industry.

The 2025 honorees included:

Kyle Petty: Former NASCAR driver and current NBC Sports racing analyst, recognized with the Racing Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award.
Sebastian Mackensen: President and CEO of BMW of North America, LLC, and Head of BMW Group Region Americas, awarded the Manufacturer Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mario Murgado: President and CEO of Murgado Automotive Group, honored with the Dealer Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award.

In his acceptance speech, Mario Murgado emphasized the event’s broader mission, stating, “There’s nothing more important than children. We believe that it’s important to give them unconditional love, but more importantly, give them an education and to be able to assist them and to support them in their growing years, their formative years, and this organization does an incredible job.”

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All proceeds from the gala directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, an organization dedicated to enabling young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. With 12 clubs across the county, BGCBC offers a range of programs focusing on academic success, character and leadership development, and healthy lifestyles.

The success of the gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Rick Case Automotive Group, J.R. Dunn Jewelers, JM Family Enterprises, Braman Automotive, Murgado Automotive Group, and BMW Pembroke Pines & Lauderdale.

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For more information about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County and how to get involved, visit their official website.

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