Being there is everything · Issue 1 · November 2026
The Sweet Journey
A mission imagined by Ariana. A legacy carried forward for families.
Dear friends,
Taking on this role as Director of the Sweet Journey 17 Foundation has been a true gift, and I am so grateful for this opportunity and for everything it has already brought. I feel honored, and ignited with passion and purpose, to help carry Ari’s mission forward. None of this happens alone: thank you for your support, your time and your involvement. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us, together.
With love,
Toni Shrayev, Foundation Director
This month on the journey
Our very first event: Family Night at Terra
On October 9 we held our first event as a foundation: dinner, drinks, permanent jewelry and a DJ, with a portion of the night donated to Sweet Journey 17. Thank you, Terra, for opening your doors, and thank you to everyone who came and made it feel like family.
Showing up for our community
Since September, we’ve been proud to stand beside organizations caring for children and families in our community. Each story is on our website:
Oct 10Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Diamond BallRead more
Oct 22In Jacob’s Shoes, Every Sole Counts galaRead more
Oct 24Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Red Gala, where Ari’s hospital journey beganRead more
And in September, Sofia’s Hope’s Denim & Diamonds in Boca Raton. Read more
The people behind the journey
Thank you, volunteers
This month, a heartfelt thank-you to Christie Luciano, Kandice Freedman, and Alysia Gorsuch, whose enthusiasm and steady commitment of time and heart are helping SJ17 thrive. As our volunteer family continues to grow, please know that your efforts are seen and appreciated, and we look forward to celebrating more of you in future newsletters!
Be part of the next chapter
Coming up
Sip & Shop at Haute and Honey
Live music, local vendors and boutique shopping in Delray Beach, with a percentage of sales donated to Sweet Journey 17. Bring a friend!
Save the date
The 2027 Sweet Journey 17 Gala
Our very first Gala: an evening of connection and purpose, for Ari’s mission.
A beautiful night. A brighter journey.
Can’t attend? Choose a square in our Basket Donation Bingo and donate a basket for the Gala’s auction, by January 31.
This month’s theme · Love Like Ari
Grateful Hearts
November is a month for gratitude, and kindness is how gratitude shows up.
A sincere thank-you can change someone’s whole day.
This month’s challenge
Take a moment to thank someone who made a difference for you, and tell them why.
And every week, there’s a new small kindness to share. We’d love to have you with us on our social pages, cheering each other on, one kind act at a time.
Thank you for being part of Ari’s journey.
With love,
The Sweet Journey 17 Foundation
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