ian_saunders_and_patricia_smith_wb_copy.jpgFORT LAUDERDALE — The annual Boys N’ Toys private yacht hop during the recent Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show raised $170,000 for Kids In Distress of Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Kids In Distress (KID) has more than 30 years of experience as a nationally accredited, community-supported agency dedicated to the prevention of child abuse, preservation of the family and the care and treatment of abused children in Broward and Palm Beach counties. KID offers a continuum of care that includes emergency shelters, therapeutic services, abuse prevention, foster care and adoption. 

“We appreciate all of the support we received for this magnificent event,” said Boys N’ Toys Chair Jeb Bush Jr. “A special thanks goes to our very hard-working committee and our generous sponsors. It was a beautiful evening that netted significant funds for Kids In Distress.”

A trip to Paris, a diamond anchor necklace and the opportunity to be Broward County Sheriff for a Day were part of the live auction. Among the silent auction items were trips to Aruba, Costa Rica, Ocean Reef and the Bahamas as well as local getaway vacations, dine around town gift certificates, sports memorabilia, a Chanel basket and other gift baskets.

“We are proud to be a sponsor of this unique event that raises funds for much-needed programs through Kids In Distress,” said Kevin

Merrigan, CEO of Northrop & Johnson, which hosted Boys N’ Toys along with PNC Bank and Meg Green & Associates.

During Boys N’ Toys, Northrop & Johnson invited all guests to tour their lavish display of megayachts.  Guests also mingled, while enjoying live musical entertainment, elegant hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails. 

KID services helped more than 6,300 children and families last year through prevention, foster care, preschool, family counseling clinic and emergency residential programs.