By Shaun Ryan
The annual Underwood Jewelers Trunk Show and Prize Draw Benefitting Angelwood, held April 30 through May 2, offered the community an opportunity to acquire stunning pieces of jewelry from two world-renowned designers while helping a Jacksonville-based nonprofit that has been serving individuals and families with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1993.
“Our work is centered on helping children, adults, seniors and their families live with dignity, independence and meaningful connection,” according to Angelwood CEO Heather Stamper. “We provide a continuum of services that includes residential group homes, respite care, adult day training, supported employment, behavior services and children’s programs such as summer and holiday camps.”
For families, Angelwood is often a lifeline, providing direct care and support, but also peace of mind and consistency and is a trusted partner in caregiving.
For individuals, the nonprofit creates opportunities to grow, build skills, participate in the community and experience a fuller, richer quality of life.
“At its heart, Angelwood exists to remind our community that every person has value, potential and the right to be included,” according to Stamper.
The trunk show raises awareness, deepens community engagement and generates support for those whom the nonprofit serves. It also generates much-needed financial support.
The store’s assistant manager, Sarah Merkling, reflected on the longtime partnership between Underwood Jewelers and Angelwood, Inc., as well as other efforts supported by the business.
“We feel very strongly that we are in a position to help shine a light on charitable organizations,” said Merkling, “and it’s an honor to do so.”
The event was hosted by two major designers, David Yurman and Platinum Born.
The David Yurman brand uses sterling silver and 18K gold in its line, and every collection works together, united by a cable design.
“They have classic, recognizable pieces as well as fresh, new looks that are introduced seasonally,” said Merkling. “We had a really nice selection of jewelry to present to our clients (at the show).”
The Platinum Born brand uses only platinum in its jewelry, which is lightweight, and employs innovative designs. The beads are faceted very precisely and are sometimes mistaken for diamonds, due to their sparkle.
In cooperation with Underwood Jewelers, the designers donated exclusive pieces of jewelry for a prize draw, which will be held Aug. 15 at Angelwood’s annual Celebration Gala at the Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra Beach. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the prize draw will go directly to Angelwood.
David Yurman donated a morganite and diamond pendant in rose gold from the Châtelaine collection to the prize draw.
Platinum Born donated a pair of hoop earrings from the Helios collection to the prize draw.
“Both pieces are stunning,” said Merkling.
“The prize draw also creates an additional layer of excitement and participation, turning the event into a meaningful opportunity for people to give while also engaging with the mission in a memorable way,” according to Stamper.
The annual trunk show is a highlight for the Ponte Vedra Beach community.
“Angelwood and Underwood Jewelers share a truly special partnership that began about a decade ago, sparked by a mutual friend who saw the natural alignment between our missions of community care and excellence,” according to Stamper. “What started as a simple introduction has blossomed into a deep, multifaceted relationship built on shared values of generosity, integrity and a commitment to uplifting Northeast Florida’s most vulnerable neighbors.”
Learn more about Angelwood Inc. at angelwoodjax.org. The Underwood Jewelers Ponte Vedra Beach store is located at 330 A1A North, Suite 204.