On Saturday, January 25th, the Church of Scientology hosted Children With A Vision for their 13^th Annual Grandmother’s Pre-Valentine’s Day Gala. More than 400 grandmothers and their attendant participated in the gala, which was held in the Fort Harrison Auditorium. The event included a buffet dinner, awards and dancing.  

The grandmothers came from Pinellas and Hillsborough County and their attendants were from a diverse range of groups from Men of Vision, to the Pinellas Job Corps, to the Harram Temple #23 Oasis of Tampa Desert of Florida, and the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Tampa Florida.

The gala was started by Tonya Lewis, a long-time community activist and founder of the nonprofit Children With A Vision. “This Gala is an opportunity to recognize these grandmothers – they should get their flowers while they are still here with us. I had to do something more than simply say ‘Thank you.’”

Two grandmothers, whose dedication to those in their care went above and beyond the call of duty were especially acknowledged at the event.

“Ms. Sandra Frazier and Ms. Joanne Thaler were our Grandmother Gala Honorees for 2025,” said Ms. Lewis.

“Ms. Frazier is the mother of four biological children,10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren but is a mother to many in the community. While raising her four kids she also provided a safe space for family and children in the community. Ms. Frazier shows love to the community through her Sunday dinner tradition – where she feeds those who cross her threshold,” said Ms. Lewis.

“Ms. Thaler has spent 41 years as a licensed foster parent in Florida and New York. In addition to creating a safe environment, with unconditional love for the children in her care, Ms. Thaler has been an invaluable resource of knowledge in assisting new and seasoned foster parents navigate the system of care,” said Lewis.

“We were honored to have the Grandmother’s Gala back to the Fort Harrison,” said Lisa Mansell, the Community Affairs Director for the Church of Scientology. “Each of the women in that room has a story to tell. Their persistence in ensuring their children and children’s children are raised with love is an inspiration to us all. Events like this are another milestone on our more than two-decades-long partnership with Children With A Vision and is something to celebrate.”

For 32 years, Children With A Vision has annually provided support for children and families in need, from back-to-school supplies, to Thanksgiving dinners and presents during the holidays.

Children With A Vision relies on donations from the community to carry out their work. If you would like to find out more about Children With A Vision, go to childrenwithavisioninc.com  

ABOUT CHILDREN WITH A VISION

The mission of Children With A Vision is to provide leadership in the pursuit of excellence and to create effective learning opportunities for all. Children With A Vision works to bring communities together to impact education and contribute to youth – giving these youth a brighter future.  

ABOUT THE FORT HARRISON

Originally constructed in 1926, the Fort Harrison has served as the center of Scientology and community activities since 1975. The Fort Harrison today serves as a religious retreat for Scientologists visiting Clearwater. It also provides a major venue for cultural and philanthropic galas, award ceremonies and benefit performances and events, utilized by dozens of nonprofit organizations. The Scientology religion was founded by humanitarian and philosopher, L. Ron Hubbard. To learn more, visit www.scientology.org or www.scientology.tv.