Nov. 2, 2012 – Three hundred seventy guests joined Kristi House and friends for the 13th annual Touch a Heart Dinner & Auction at the Four Seasons on November 2, where $500,000 was raised in net proceeds for child victims of sexual abuse.

The signature event was chaired by Emma Afra, Julia Bianchi and Lauren Harrison Genovese. The Philanthropic Chairs for the event were Lourdes Leon-Vega and Dr. Otto Vega.Kristi House launched its capital campaign for the shelter it will open in early 2013 and raised over $200,000 toward its renovation and operations. Eliza and Hugh Culverhouse led the fundraising with $50,000 toward the shelter, matched by Lourdes Leon-Vega and Otto Vega. Trial Attorney David Bianchi served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies and Auctioneer. Gold Heart sponsors included Trish & Dan Bell, Swanee & Paul DiMare, Frank Fawzi and Jenny & Nate LaTour.

American Airlines was the Platinum Heart sponsor. Republic National Distributing Company was the evening’s wine purveyor. Florals were provided by Fresh Market of Coconut Grove.

Several not available-in-store items were offered for auction including a walk-on part on Burn Notice, a private dinner for 10 prepared by Chef Timon Balloo of Sugarcane at the winner’s home, a California VIP Wine Trip arranged by Republic National Distributing Company with stays in private guest houses in Napa and Sonoma, a private Neiman Marcus Coral Gables Luncheon and Fashion Show and a Neiman’s Shopping Spree, were among the exciting live auction items.

Other private dinners by top chefs were auctioned including one from Michael Schwartz of Michael’s Genuine, Chef Julie at Essencia Restaurant, and Chef Aaron Brooks of Four Seasons.