OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The spotlight will shine bright at the 2025 Ovations Encore Gala, an elegant evening dedicated to honoring the extraordinary individuals and organizations whose compassion and leadership are transforming lives across Marion County. Hosted at the Appleton Museum of Art, the gala will bring together community leaders, past Ovations Award recipients, and distinguished guests for a night of celebration, inspiration, and purpose.

The Ovations Encore Gala will pay tribute to this year’s honorees, recognizing their outstanding contributions to community service, advocacy, and humanitarian excellence.

Among those being celebrated are:

  • Rose Roberts, whose lifelong dedication to empowering others has inspired hope and strengthened countless lives.
  • Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, for their enduring mission to build homes, stability, and self-reliance for local families.
  • Angels Above Baby Gowns, an Ocala-based organization transforming donated wedding dresses into precious burial gowns for infants, offering comfort and compassion to grieving families.
  • The Arc Marion County, for their unwavering commitment to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education, advocacy, and inclusion.
  • Sewing Bees Club, Inc., whose members stitch together creativity and compassion, providing handmade comfort items for hospitals, shelters, and community initiatives.
  • George Ostrom, whose volunteer spirit and tireless service continue to make a profound difference in the lives of Marion County residents.
  • Community Home Project and Coordinators Dayana Bouey and Shayna Colyer, recognized for their collaborative efforts to connect families to vital resources that promote an improved quality of life.
  • Sozo Kids, a nonprofit transforming the lives of children and families living in rural poverty through education, mentorship, and holistic support.

This year’s Gala will feature a keynote address by Elgin Carelock, a renowned author, educator, and leadership coach, whose dynamic insights on purpose-driven living are expected to leave guests inspired and empowered.

Guests will also enjoy a soul-stirring performance by the Ocala Symphony Chorus, whose artistry and passion will elevate the evening to new heights.

In addition to honoring these exceptional changemakers, the Gala will include the unveiling of the 2025 Ovations of the Year Award, the highest recognition given to a past Ovations Award recipient whose continued service exemplifies excellence and compassion in action.

“The Ovations Encore Gala is more than a ceremony—it’s a heartfelt celebration of those who give of themselves so others may thrive,” said Wanda Adams, Gala Chair. “Each honoree embodies the spirit of community that makes Marion County such a special place to call home.”

The evening promises a refined ambiance, world-class art, and moments that uplift the soul—all within the distinguished setting of the Appleton Museum of Art.

Event details:

  • Date: January 17, 2026
  • Time: 6:00PM – 9:00PM
  • Location: Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala, Florida
  • Tickets: General Admission – $75 | VIP and Supporter Tables Available
  • Attire: Formal

For sponsorship opportunities, ticket information, or media inquiries, please visit accoladecelebrations.org/event-details/ovations-encore-gala.

About the Ovations Award

The Ovations Award is a monthly celebration that honors individuals and organizations in Marion County whose dedication, compassion, and leadership inspire positive change. Through celebration and recognition, the program uplifts those whose work strengthens the fabric of our community and encourages others to serve with purpose and hear.