DeBerard Family Foundation and United Way Partner for Annual Okeechobee Halloween Event Supporting Healthy Start

The DeBerard Family Foundation has partnered with United Way of St. Lucie & Okeechobee to present the Okeechobee Halloween Extravaganza on October 31 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. This annual family-friendly event offers local families a safe environment for Halloween celebrations with trick-or-treat booths and community activities while supporting Healthy Start of Okeechobee, an organization that provides essential support services for children and families throughout the community.

The event's importance extends beyond seasonal entertainment, representing a strategic partnership between corporate philanthropy and established nonprofit organizations addressing community needs. The DeBerard Family Foundation, which is associated with Philip DeBerard Injury Attorney, focuses on programs that strengthen families, youth, and community wellness throughout Okeechobee and surrounding regions. This partnership with United Way amplifies the impact of both organizations' community development initiatives.

For local families, the event provides a crucial safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, addressing parental concerns about Halloween safety while maintaining the holiday's festive spirit. The free admission ensures accessibility for all community members regardless of economic circumstances, supporting equitable access to community celebrations. The event's timing from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. accommodates working families and allows for age-appropriate participation for children of various ages.

The business community's involvement through sponsorship and booth participation demonstrates the growing trend of corporate social responsibility in regional development. Current sponsors include Lake & Trail USA, Wawa, Nunez Air Conditioning, Herndon Landscape Group, Passion Paints LLC, Children's Services Council, Okeechobee Community Emergency Response Team, and Philip DeBerard Injury Attorney. These partnerships create networking opportunities while reinforcing corporate commitment to community welfare.

The event's beneficiary, Healthy Start of Okeechobee, represents the long-term impact of such community gatherings. By directing support to organizations providing vital family services, the Halloween Extravaganza contributes to sustainable community development beyond the single evening event. This model of combining community celebration with charitable support creates a multiplier effect for local nonprofit organizations.

Organizers note that booth vendor opportunities remain available for businesses and organizations interested in participating. These free booth spaces allow direct community engagement while supporting the event's trick-or-treat activities. Additional sponsorship opportunities also remain open for companies seeking to enhance their community presence while supporting meaningful local initiatives.

The collaboration between the DeBerard Family Foundation and United Way of St. Lucie & Okeechobee exemplifies how strategic partnerships can maximize community impact. By leveraging United Way's established community networks and the Foundation's philanthropic resources, the event creates substantial value for multiple stakeholders while addressing both immediate entertainment needs and long-term community support requirements.