Partner Spotlight: Costa Del Mar
Fueling Impact: Costa’s Support of Emeril Lagasse Foundation
The success of Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s mission—to inspire, mentor, and enable youth to reach their full potential—relies on more than vision. It depends on committed partners whose generosity and shared values make meaningful impact possible. Since 2017, Line, Vine & Dine – one of our Foundation’s signature fundraising events – has become a premier gathering in Fort Lauderdale. From the beginning, Costa Del Mar has played a vital role in its growth and long-term sustainability.
More than just a fundraiser, Line, Vine & Dine is a one-of-a-kind culinary weekend and charity fishing tournament that supports both our national programs and local organizations in Fort Lauderdale, including ARC Culinary and the Dan Marino Foundation. Both provide culinary and hospitality training to young people with developmental disorders and other life challenges, helping them build valuable life skills, gain independence, and access meaningful career opportunities.
Costa’s continued support has helped elevate Line, Vine & Dine into a true force for change. Their generosity enhances our guests’ experience while directly supporting youth programs that change lives.
Each year, Costa brings a standout feature to the weekend: a pop-up boutique at the Welcome Celebration, where guests “shop” a curated collection of Costa sunglasses—fully donated. This unique offering adds a special touch to the event while driving energy and enthusiasm for our cause.
Headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, Costa is known for its commitment to protecting coastlines, supporting communities, and creating unforgettable moments. The decision to partner with the Foundation stemmed from a mutual dedication to creating lasting change.
“We’re always looking for partners who lead with action,” said Jed Larkin, brand marketing director at Costa.
“When we first connected with the Foundation, they had the perfect DNA—grounded in community, sustainability, and culinary culture. It was a natural fit.”
But for Costa, the event is about more than brand presence. It’s about impact.
While Costa’s boutique draws attention, it’s the stories behind the event that leave the deepest impression. For Larkin, his first Line, Vine & Dine wasn’t just impressive—it was transformational.
“I completely underestimated the experience of hearing their stories,” he recalled. “Going station to station, speaking with students from ARC Culinary and the Dan Marino Foundation —not just tasting their food but learning about their journeys—it was incredibly moving.”
Larkin’s connection to the Foundation was deeply personal. He recalled childhood memories of cooking with his grandmother after watching Emeril on TV. “Meeting Emeril and seeing the kind of support he’s offering through this Foundation brought that full circle,” he said. What began as a brand activation quickly evolved into a meaningful, long-term commitment to a mission that transforms lives. Costa’s presence not only adds excitement to the event, but also helps expand the Foundation’s reach, raise vital funds, and uplift more young people.
“You see year over year that strategies may shift, but the commitment to impact stays the same,” Larkin said.
That lasting dedication is why our partnership with Costa continues to grow. We are profoundly grateful for their unwavering generosity, vision, and heart. Their ongoing support of Line, Vine & Dine doesn’t just sustain Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s mission—it amplifies it. Together with partners like Costa, we’re creating more than a memorable weekend—we’re building futures.