22nd annual event raises near-record amount
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s 2026 Magic Under the Mangroves gala raised more than $2.04 million net to support the organization’s environmental science, policy, education, and wildlife rehabilitation programs—the second-highest total in the event’s history.
Approximately 400 guests attended the 22nd annual event, held at The Ritz-Carlton, Tiburón in Naples, where the resort’s culinary team created an evening of elevated cuisine complemented by a theatrical opening performance inspired by the western Everglades.
The live auction, led by nationally renowned auctioneer Lydia Fenet, delivered several standout moments. A stay at Alligator Ron and Ali Bergeron’s Green Glades West estate in the Everglades tied the highest single bid in Magic history at $100,000, while an exclusive python experience with the Conservancy’s science team sold twice for a combined $96,000.
“This incredible evening reflects the generosity and passion of a community that deeply cares about protecting Southwest Florida,” said Rob Moher, president and CEO of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. “The support we receive through Magic Under the Mangroves allows our team to continue critical day-to-day work to protect our water, land, wildlife, and our future.”
Sponsors of the 2026 Magic Under the Mangroves gala included Northern Trust as Presenting Sponsor and William Raveis as Supporting Sponsor. Media sponsors included Naples Daily News, WINK News, and Gulfshore Life. This year’s event was chaired by Linda and Victor Grijalva and Vanessa and Martin Gilvarg.
Magic Under the Mangroves was named Best Fundraising Event in Naples by the Community’s Choice Awards two years in a row and provides significant funding to support the Conservancy’s mission-driven programs across Southwest Florida.
To view the entire Photography Gallery, please click on the button below. Photo Credit to Sharon Mammano Photography and Drew & Karen’s Photography.
About the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a nonprofit environmental organization that has protected water, land and wildlife in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties for more than 60 years. Through environmental science, policy, education and wildlife rehabilitation, the Conservancy safeguards Southwest Florida’s natural resources for future generations.
Headquartered in Naples, Florida, the Conservancy is home to Collier County’s only native wildlife hospital and its vibrant Nature Center. Currently open to visitors, the Nature Center is undergoing a major transformation into a new, impactful community offering—the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience, set to open in 2028. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a gateway to conservation, offering immersive exhibits, hands-on learning and expanded programs to inspire environmental stewardship and enhance the region’s quality of life.
Learn more and support Southwest Florida’s environmental future at www.conservancy.org.
Media Inquiries
Reneé Stoll, Conservancy of Southwest Florida Director of Communications and Marketing, (239) 430-2460, renees@conservancy.org