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A retirement celebration for a community non-profit leader in Cleveland, Ohio. The venue is decorated with sequin linens and dramatic lighting. The mayor of Cleveland, Ohio, Justin Bibb, is giving a speech.

Awareness-Raisers, Friend-Raisers, Fund-Raisers

A Meaningful Farewell to A Community Leader

Honoring Leadership and Legacy at John Corlett's Retirement Celebration

As John Corlett, President and Executive Director of The Center for Community Solutions (CCS), prepared for retirement, the CCS community gathered to honor his legacy and launch the John Corlett Rapid Response Fund. Hosted at Gordon Green in Cleveland’s Detroit Shoreway neighborhood, the event celebrated John’s impactful work while laying the foundation for continued advocacy. Palmer Event Solutions was proud to design and execute an evening that blended celebration with purpose.


Setting the Scene


CCS chose Gordon Green for its open, welcoming atmosphere – ideal for a reception-style gathering where attendees could mix and mingle with the guest of honor and each other. With delicious food and beverage from Spice Catering Co. floral arrangements by Urban Orchid and flawless valet services care of the venue, guests enjoyed an elegant yet relaxed experience.


Heartfelt Tributes


Many took time to reflect on John’s influence including civic leaders like City of Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, Northeast Ohio community members, and other CCS supporters. Event Host and DJ Nick Duvé guided these moments as each shared their stories about John, fostering an engaging, heartfelt environment.


A Lasting Impact


One of the most memorable moments was the introduction of the John Corlett Rapid Response Fund, dedicated to continuing John’s advocacy for health, social, and economic improvements. Guests were moved to contribute digitally via their mobile devices on site, ensuring John’s legacy will inspire future change from that moment on.


Palmer Event Solutions' Role


Our team curated every detail to honor John’s legacy:


  1. Collaborative Planning: Project lead, Gail Palmer, worked closely with John and the CCS planning committee to reflect John’s values through meaningful interactions.

  2. Vendor Management: CCS pre-selected several event industry vendors to deliver high-quality catering and floral design elements. Gail and her team coordinated details with these companies so CCS could focus on other (more important) elements.

  3. Introductions to New, Valuable Event Partners: Palmer Event Solutions provided recommendations aligned with John and CCS’ values, including an engaging event host/DJ, skilled photographer and creative graphic designer.

  4. Fundraising Integration: With Palmer Event Solutions guidance, CCS selectively incorporated curated donation opportunities throughout the evening, simplifying the opportunity to contribute to the Rapid Response Fund.

  5. Attention to Detail: Together, our teams focused on ways to commemorate personal, cherished memories that celebrated John’s impact on the organization and community.


Looking Ahead: The John Corlett Rapid Response Fund


Through thoughtful planning and execution, the CCS retirement celebration offered a meaningful farewell to a beloved leader, setting the stage for future impact. The John Corlett Rapid Response Fund will support community initiatives, continuing John’s commitment to public good. Palmer Event Solutions is honored to have helped create an event that not only celebrated a remarkable career, but also paved the way for ongoing advocacy and growth.

  • CLIENT

    The Center for Community Solutions

    VENUE

    Gordon Green

    DATE

    November 30, 2023

    PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT DETAILS

CLIENT

The Center for Community Solutions

VENUE

Gordon Green

DATE

November 30, 2023

PHOTOGRAPHY

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