I was extremely blessed that someone from Boys & Girls Clubs came into my community and saw my potential -Jackie Joyner-Kersee

The 12th Annual Steak and Stake Dinner and Auction presented by John Jacobs Construction was once again a big hit in St. Lucie County. Boys & Girls Club alumnus Jackie Joyner-Kersee was the big draw as she shared stories of her Olympic experiences and growing up as a Club kid in what was a ‘Boys only’ club at the time as the keynote speaker of the annual fundraising event held Friday, Oct. 25 at the PGA Island Club in St. Lucie West.

“Being able to help Clubs here in Florida is no different than in East St. Louis. So many kids need the guidance the clubs bring because they just don’t have it at home because of their own circumstances,” stated Jackie Joyner-Kersee

True to its theme this year’s Steak and Stake was a celebration of superheroes. From the decorations to the attire, the superhero keynote speaker to the club kids in attendance and finishing with the incredible attendees raising more money than it had in the past, it was a night to remember for all involved.

“We had a great committee that amped up every level of the event from Jackie Joyner-Kersee as our influential keynote speaker to all the details in the room. We are happy to have met our goal but we still have a long way to go with our need for transportation by having a vehicle at all five clubs,” said Leslie Kristof, Keiser University Port St. Lucie campus president and board chair of Steak & Stake.

Dinner was provided by Okeechobee Steakhouse for the second year in a row. Guests enjoyed a fantastic Prime NY Strip steak dinner with all the fixings and participated in the very popular auction of unique items and getaways, a performance by the Chuck Hill Club’s Glam Squad and a generous Halloween themed after-party at Tutto Fresco as they took a stake in a child’s life.

“We have so many people and businesses in St. Lucie County that are able to make a difference in the experiences a Club kid receives. This was a great opportunity for them to meet the kids at the event and hear the success story firsthand from Ms. Joyner-Kersee,” said Will Armstead, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County.