On May 20 and 21, the “Samantha’s Friends” benefit fundraiser took place at Lakewood Ranch in Florida. The theme for this spring was “Marvel Madness — The Avengers.”
Mother Teresa once said: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” This quote applies to “Samantha’s Friends.”
‘Samantha’s Friends’ charity
“Marvel Madness — The Avengers” event was co-hosted by Sammy Lee Bozza, Alice Bozza, and Craig Bozza of “Samantha’s Friends.” The proceeds from this event benefitted such nonprofit organizations as the Code Red Foundation, Camp Dream, Boo2Bullying, Bears Who Care, the Play for Life Foundation, and Valor Service Dogs, all of which are eclectic and important causes.
The event featured such actors as Kristos Andrews (“The Bay”), Eric Martsolf (“Days of Our Lives”), Mike Manning (“The Bay” and “This Is Us”), Matthew Ashford (“Days of Our Lives”), Jordi Vilasuso (“The Young and The Restless”), Carson Boatman (“Days of Our Lives”), Erik Fellows (“Purgatory”), Kyle Lowder (“Days of Our Lives”), Jake Jensen, and “The Bay” showrunner Gregori J. Martin.
Martsolf and Boatman are also part of The Day Players Band.
The actors entertained the fans with their singing, dancing, trivia portion, and they even participated in the live auction as part of their fundraising efforts.
“This year of ‘Samantha’s Friends’ was a huge success and the best one yet,” exclaimed Sammy Bozza.
“Thanks to all our supporters, many who came to donate their time and talent year after year to help this very worthwhile nonprofit charity. We had gorgeous service canines that the entire crowd went wild for. Awesome and amazing celebrities and entertainment. My heart is so full right now it’s going to explode,” Sammy elaborated.
The event also featured a live and silent audition, which featured many neat items for auction and daytime memorabilia. Two of them included a “walk-on” role in the 23-time Emmy award-winning series “The Bay,” which went to Barbara, a fan and attendee.
In addition, another lucky fan, Deanne Corrado, got the opportunity to act out a past scene from “Days of Our Lives” with veteran actor Matthew Ashford.
“Being a part of ‘Samantha’s Friends’ felt like we finally met kind, like-minded people who enjoy fun interaction with the actors but really attend the events because giving to charities which we all connect with one way or another feels good it supports things near and dear to my heart: veterans, children and animals, among others,” Deanne Corrado said.
“This year’s ‘Marvel Madness’ did not disappoint,” said fan Amy Whitworth. “The Samantha’s Friends charity event was amazing as all the years prior. It is always great to see the stars and fans come out and show their support. A lot of money was raised and Sammy and Alice have been generous enough to extend their charity to so many others in need. I am honored to be a part of it every year.”
The Verdict
The 27th annual “Samantha’s Friends” was such a poignant and inspirational event. It is highly worth checking out if one is ever in Lakewood Ranch, Florida (near the Sarasota area).
It raised money for multiple noteworthy causes coupled with the presence of some daytime TV’s greatest and Emmy award-winning actors. There was a feeling of euphoria and nostalgia in the country club venue, where the event was held.
Compliments to Sammy and Alice for organizing yet another uplifting event with a family atmosphere. The dogs in attendance were an absolute delight.
For more information on “Samantha’s Friends,” check out the official website, and follow them on Instagram.
