'Claws for Celebration' at Joe's raises funds for Marian Center

By Cristina Cabrera Jarro -

Photography: COURTESY

MIAMI BEACH | Friends and supporters of the Marian Center School and Services kicked off stone crab season in South Florida for a good cause with the 15th annual “Claws for Celebration” at Joe’s Stone Crab on Miami Beach.

About 245 guests, including Archbishop Thomas Wenski, attended the luncheon Nov. 3, 2025, raising more than $100,000 to support the school for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Funds raised will also help purchase two new golf carts for transporting students and clients across the Marian Center’s campus in Miami Gardens.

“We are so grateful for their participation,” said Sister Lidia Valli, executive director and principal of the Marian Center. “I am grateful also because I see people enjoying their time and sharing conversations and stories with warmth and with a welcoming spirit,” Sister Lidia said.

“Claws for Celebration” was organized by the Marian Center Auxiliary members and event chair Toni Acocella. In addition to the crustacean and seafood menu that attracts people to Joe’s, Acocella believes the ambiance of the annual gathering has a charm that brings people back every year.

“The camaraderie, the vibe, they love it. They love coming for that reason. They love knowing what it’s all about, but most (of all], they love feeling that connection to the Marian Center. It’s just a beautiful day,” Acocella said.

Her journey with the Marian Center began 22 years ago with her daughter, Ashley, who has Down syndrome. Frustrated with the public school system that was not providing enough formation and assistance for her daughter, the family almost moved out of South Florida. Before putting her house on the market, Acocella called the Marian Center and spoke with Sister Lucia Ceccotti, a religious from the Sisters of St. Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, who founded the school.

“I told her I needed a school for my daughter,” Acocella said.

After being invited to the Marian Center, Acocella recalled her first visit as “love at first sight.”

“I remember thinking, ‘If Ashley goes there, I’m going to do whatever I can (to help),’” she said.

Her daughter was accepted, and Acocella kept her promise to help. Today, she serves on the Marian Center Board, the Auxiliary, and the Marian Center Action Team (MCAT), which is similar to a parent-teacher association. She also served as president of both the auxiliary and the board.

“They’ve become my family. I love going, being part of it, and doing what I can,” Acocella said.

Looking back at the first “Claws for Celebration” event she organized at Joe’s, she remembers being concerned about not selling enough tickets. Sister Lucia’s support and encouragement pushed her forward.

“She said, ‘Even if we have to bring people there on our own, and even if you don’t make a lot of money, just try it.’ And I did. And man, it was a success from day one,” Acocella said.