Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples Celebrates Record-Breaking Succes
Published on November 11, 2025
Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples Celebrates Record-Breaking Success at STOCK Development’s Backyard Bash, Raising Over $270,000
NAPLES, FL (November 11, 2025) Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON) is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of its sold-out event, STOCK Development’s Backyard Bash, held this past weekend. Hosted by Annie Griffo, this adults-only event brought the community together for a lively evening of fun, nostalgia, and generosity—raising a record-breaking of $272,000 in support of CMON’s Access-for-All initiative.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from our community, friends, and families who came together for this event,” said Annie Griffo, Backyard Bash Event Chair. “CMON has been such an important part of my life for many years, and seeing everyone rally around this cause leaves me feeling so grateful. As Southwest Florida continues to grow, investing in spaces that inspire creativity, learning, and connection for our children is more important than ever. It’s truly heartwarming to see so many people share that vision.”
With STOCK Development as the title sponsor, and Ave Maria Development as the presenting sponsor, along with the support of numerous community partners and individuals, guests embraced the joy of childhood once again. Attendees played oversized backyard games, savored delicious bites from local food trucks, enjoyed specialty drinks, and danced the night away under the stars to live music. A thrilling live and silent auction added even more excitement to the evening.
Proceeds from the event will directly support CMON’s Access-for-All initiative, which provides discounted admission to families receiving EBT, SNAP, and WIC benefits—covering about half of the funding needed to fully sustain the program. This past year, the initiative made more than 30,000 visits possible, accounting for about 15% of the museum’s total attendance. Access-for-All ensures that every child and family in Southwest Florida has the opportunity to explore, learn, and dream through CMON’s interactive exhibits and programs.
“We are incredibly grateful to our supporters for once again stepping up to fund our Access for All initiatives,” said Jonathan Foerster, CEO of CMON. “This generosity makes it possible for families from across all economic spectrums to spend time playing, learning and dreaming at CMON.”
Backyard Bash Returns Next Fall!
We’re already looking forward to another unforgettable night of fun, laughter, and community spirit at next year’s Backyard Bash! Mark your calendars—this beloved event returns in Fall 2026. Stay tuned for details and don’t miss your chance to play, connect, and make a lasting impact for families across Southwest Florida!
About the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is a brain-building powerhouse and Southwest Florida’s first museum devoted for children and families to learn through play. With hands-on exhibit galleries, the accessible museum invites visitors of all ages to journey through the swamps of the Everglades, climb a two-story banyan tree, or experiment with the water play station. Children can become a weather forecaster, a farmer, a chef, a fisherman, an artist, an architect, or a veterinarian; explore the cold of an igloo, the whoosh of the wind, the sound of the sea, and the effects of gravity. Throughout the day special activities encourage our guests to get involved, try something new and be energized. CMON offers a variety of interactive exhibits providing kids with education through play.
Connect with us:
Facebook: @childrensmuseumofnaples
Instagram: @childrensmuseumofnaples
For more information about Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, or to make a contribution, visit www.cmon.org or call 239-260-1604.