Event Location: The Alice
Story & Photography by: Harley S. Sampson, Jr.
Event Date: June 7, 2026
Advanced Sacred Hope Academy (ASHA) is a nonprofit, independent private school serving the Greater Fort Walton Beach area. Combining personalized education with specialized behavior therapy, ASHA provides individualized learning for students with autism and other neurological disorders who may struggle in traditional classrooms. At ASHA, families, therapists, educators, volunteers, and local businesses have created a deeply supportive community. No child is turned away, and that commitment to inclusion has helped transform ASHA into one of the area’s fastest-growing organizations. On June 7 ASHA held its Love the Locals Luau at The Alice in Destin.
Against the backdrop of Choctawhatchee Bay, The Alice was transformed into an island-inspired fundraiser where guests gathered for an evening of celebration, philanthropy, and community support. “We welcomed a sold-out crowd for an evening layered with Polynesian-inspired cuisine, fire dancing, live entertainment, cultural performances, island rhythms, and meaningful connection,” said Julie Gracela Webb, Founder & CEO, Advanced Sacred Hope Academy. “But beyond the tropical ambiance and cinematic sunset views, the event raised more than $23,000 in a single evening, bringing ASHA to an incredible $67,000 raised toward our $106,000 sensory playground goal in under seven months. We are beyond grateful.”
By the evening’s end, the luau had raised more than funds for a playground. It reinforced ASHA’s mission of creating a community where children and families feel seen, welcomed, and supported while helping bring a much-needed sensory playground one step closer to reality.
