FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — November 6, 2025.
The Benevolence Foundation (BENFO) is proud to announce its successful attendance and warm reception at the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), marking a major milestone in its mission to connect the yachting community with meaningful charitable giving.
Throughout the five-day event, held from October 29 to November 2, the BENFO team met with dozens of yacht brokers, captains, and marine professionals, many of whom expressed strong interest in supporting BENFO’s charitable work through future yacht donations.
“The reception we received in Fort Lauderdale was extraordinary,” said a BENFO Director, Paul D’Agnese. “So many leaders in the marine industry resonated with our mission — to transform luxury assets into life-changing support for children and families in need. The conversations were heartfelt, sincere, and deeply encouraging.”
Connecting Generosity with Purpose
Since its founding in 2001 by the D’Agnese Family and subsequent recognition as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2015, The Benevolence Foundation has provided yacht, aircraft, and motorhome owners with a seamless way to donate high-value assets for charitable purposes.
Proceeds from these donations directly support children’s health initiatives, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — a world leader in treating and curing childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
BENFO’s presence at the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show amplified this message to a receptive audience of brokers and owners looking for a purposeful, tax-advantaged way to give back.
A Remarkable Act of Kindness
One of the most inspiring moments following the show came from Mr. Jorge Fernandez, who reached out to BENFO immediately after attending the event. On November 1, 2025, Mr. Fernandez generously donated his 2004 – 36’ Chris-Craft, demonstrating the profound impact one individual can make when generosity meets opportunity.
“Mr. Fernandez’s gift captures the very essence of what The Benevolence Foundation stands for,” said the Foundation’s leadership team. “Every vessel donated through BENFO becomes a vessel of hope — helping children receive treatment, care, and support when they need it most.”
Mr. Fernandez’s donation will directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, providing resources, comfort, and hope to young patients and their families during their most challenging times.
From the entire BENFO family: thank you, Mr. Fernandez, for your compassion and generosity.
Momentum Builds Toward the Miami International Boat Show
Following the success of FLIBS 2025, BENFO is now preparing for its next major event — the Miami International Boat Show, scheduled for winter 2026. The Foundation aims to continue expanding its presence in the marine community, building awareness among yacht owners, dealers, and brokers about the life-changing potential of charitable vessel donations.
The message remains clear and unwavering:
Every yacht donation represents a new chapter of hope for a child and their family.
About The Benevolence Foundation
Founded in 2001 by the D’Agnese Family and awarded 501(c)(3) non-profit status in 2015, The Benevolence Foundation (BENFO) specializes in converting high-value asset donations — including yachts, motorhomes, and aircraft — into charitable funds that benefit children’s causes across the nation.
Through its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and compassion, BENFO transforms generosity into tangible impact. The Foundation’s principal beneficiary, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, ensures that families never receive a bill for care, travel, housing, or food.
Learn more about BENFO’s mission and process at BENFO.org.
Looking Ahead
With the excitement and goodwill generated at FLIBS 2025, The Benevolence Foundation enters the next season with renewed purpose and growing partnerships throughout the marine industry.
As BENFO continues to share its story, one message stands above the rest:
When generosity is guided by purpose, it has the power to change lives.
