1930s Riverfront Mediterranean Revival hosts RiverHops benefit
Supporters of the North Florida School of Special Education were wowed by Heaven Trees, a Mediterranean Revival estate home owned by Carl Spadaro. The estate was extensively renovated in 2006, providing the perfect venue for the 4th annual RiverHops fundraiser. Berrilyn McGehee Houston reminisced about growing up in the home and later raising her own family there. “We had another sell-out attendance of approximately 200 guests at the dinner,” said Melanie Jensen, director of development. “This year’s event raised over $35,000 for the school which provides academics and vocational training for students with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities.”
Established in 1992 by parents wanting a better educational opportunity for children with special needs, the North Florida School of Special Education has grown to an enrollment of 100 students and post-graduates.