The Makos Academics, Arts & Athletics Club (MAAAC) raised more than $50,000 during its sixth annual Gala on Aug. 9, marking a record-breaking evening of fundraising for Orange Beach City Schools.

The sold-out event, hosted at Perdido Beach Resort, featured a silent auction, live DJ entertainment, coastal-inspired cuisine and an awards ceremony according to a news release. Guests included community members, sponsors, and supporters, all coming together to benefit students through academic, artistic and athletic initiatives.

“The 2025 MAAAC Gala was truly a night to remember! Thanks to the generous support of our community, we were able to reach record-breaking numbers in fundraising for our students in a single evening,” said MAAAC President Matt Fetner in the release. “Also, we are proud to say that a portion of the proceeds generated will be dedicated to our scholarship fund for graduating seniors. This year’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of our amazing volunteers and Gala Committee. We hope to see everyone return for next year’s event on Aug. 15, 2026.”

The silent auction, which featured donations from 112 local businesses and individuals, raised $27,344. Items included penthouse condo stays, commissioned artwork and gift packages from restaurants and storefronts. Ticket sales contributed another $19,700, while event sponsorships added $4,415.

The evening also honored community leaders. Craig Stephenson received the 2025 IMPACT Award for his contributions to Orange Beach, and Milo and Donna Mathis were presented the inaugural Volunteer of the Year award for their service since 2019.

Much of the night’s success was credited to the Gala Committee, a team of parent volunteers led by co-chairs Monica Covington and Lindsey Sloan, who oversaw event logistics, décor and auction coordination.

Perdido Beach Resort, a Diamond Level Sponsor of Orange Beach City Schools, made the event possible by sponsoring the venue and catering. The Diamond sponsorship represents contributions of $50,000 or more per academic year.

“It’s been an absolute honor to host the MAAAC Gala at Perdido Beach Resort year after year, but this year’s sold-out event marked an exciting milestone,” said Jessie Radcliff, chief marketing officer of Perdido Beach Resort. “The overwhelming support from our local community refl ects a shared commitment to the success of Orange Beach City Schools. Seeing that energy carry into a new academic year — with students now ranked among the top in the state — is a powerful testament to the passion, perseverance, and excellence of our students, educators, and families. We’re proud to champion their continued success in arts, academics, athletics and beyond.”

Proceeds from the Gala will fund scholarships for graduating seniors and support classroom, arts and athletic programs across the schools.

The seventh annual MAAAC Gala is scheduled for Aug. 15, 2026. More information about the club is available at www.obmaaac.org or on Instagram at @OBMAAAC.