On Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014, at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Holland America Line hosted a fundraiser luncheon aboard ms Westerdam for Symphony of the Americas, one of the company’s community partners.

During the annual event, Symphony of the Americas guest artists provided musical entertainment for attendees in the ship’s main show lounge. Following the luncheon, guests were invited to tour the ship before disembarking.

“We’re proud to support an organization like the Symphony of the Americas that uses music to educate youth and foster a passion for the arts,” said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, sales, marketing and guest programs for Holland America Line. “Music is an integral part of the Holland America Line cruise experience, which makes the Symphony an ideal community partner.”

Symphony of the Americas is the professional orchestra of Broward County in South Florida. Founded in 1987, the orchestra has experienced continuous growth, bringing the best of classical music to the multi-cultural population of South Florida. The Symphony has presented its International Guest Artist Series in its performance home at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts since 1991.

The Symphony is dedicated to improving the lives of children through the magic of musical investigations, both in South Florida and the Americas. The organization is proud of its partnerships to expose young at-risk students to the arts, architecture and environment, as exemplified by its continuing programs with the Bonnet House.

“Thanks to generous community partners like Holland America Line, we’re able to continue making a difference in our community and across the country,” said Renee LaBonte, Executive Director, Symphony of the Americas. “Our annual luncheon aboard one of the beautiful Holland America Line ships is a highlight of our fundraising season.”

Learning programs such as instrument workshops and open rehearsals for school age and older students, and master classes with international guest artists, offer a wide range of experiences to stretch growing minds and senses. Symphony educational and outreach programs have reached more than 35,000 people.

For more information about Holland America Line, contact a travel professional or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Editor’s note:  Photos are available at https://www.cleanpix.com/cleanpix/portal/W1qxK-X0W-kYE.