In the News - October 2026

CFHLA Gives Luncheon

This week, CFHLA, in partnership with the CFHLA Foundation, proudly hosted our annual Gives Luncheon at Hyatt Regency Orlando (Thank You, Paul Joseph, Managing Director).

We are proud to share that the CFHLA Foundation has now awarded more than $1.6 million in student scholarships since 2000.

Through the support of our members and partners, we distributed $280,650 to 65 students and hospitality employees continuing their education and 10 grants local organizations making an impact in our community.

Highlights from this luncheon include:

Camila Burgos was selected as our newest Don and Lorraine Freeberg Foundation Scholarship recipient. Camile graduated from Freedom High School last spring and is continuing her education at Valencia. Camila received a 4-year, $52,000 scholarship and a paid internship opportunity at the Caribe Royale Orlando and at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South.

The CFHLA Foundation awarded $36,000 in educational grants to support five educational programs and initiatives for high school hospitality and culinary students in Central Florida:

$5,000 to support the culinary programs at Lyman High School and Lake Mary High School in Seminole County.

$6,000 to support the 4th Annual Osceola Cooks Culinary Competition

$10,000 to support the Orange County High School Culinary Competition and Central Florida Hospitality Competition

$15,000 in total from the CFHLA Foundation and Allied Relations Council to support the Wekiva High School Magnet Culinary Program.

121 CFHLA lodging and allied members were also recognized for their participation in the Adopt-A-School Partnership throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

A special thank you to our outstanding 2026 CFHLA GIVES Luncheon sponsors, who are making a positive difference within our local community, including:

Presenting Sponsor:

Experience Kissimmee

Corporate Sponsor:

Greater Florida Electrical Contractors