Friday, March 29, 2024

Greater Giving: 8th Annual GRACE Gala October 15

Considered to be the black tie event of the year, the 8th Annual GRACE Gala will be held October 15 in the newly opened Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas. With gourmet foods, fine wines, entertainment, a car giveaway, and live and silent auctions, the glamorous affair promises a good time, but it has a serious purpose: to raise approximately $325,000 for the non-profit relief agency’s programs and services during the coming year.

As the largest fundraiser for Grapevine Relief and Community Exchange (GRACE), the annual gala is an opportunity to showcase the organization’s success stories, honor volunteers, and celebrate with supporters. Since its inception in 2004, the GRACE Gala has raised more than $1.9 million in total net proceeds. These funds are used to uphold GRACE’s mission to help those in need with more than a just a hand-out, but a hand up toward self-sufficiency. In 2010 alone, GRACE distributed more than $1.5 million worth of goods and services to meet the needs of families in Grapevine, Colleyville and Southlake, including:

  • Rent and Utility Assistance
  • Community Health Clinic
  • Clothing Room
  • Food Pantry
  • Transitional Housing
  • Senior Assistance
  • Donation Station
  • Christmas Cottage
  • Feed Our Kids (summer lunch program)

With requests for assistance up nearly 40 percent and a proportional 40 percent decrease in individual donations, the need for financial support is greater than ever for GRACE. The organization hopes to supplement this shortfall through a combination of event ticket sales ($250 each), corporate sponsorships, auction items, and raffle tickets for a 2011 Chevy Silverado or Camaro Convertible provided by this year’s Title Sponsor: The Thompson Group, Classic Chevrolet in Grapevine. Raffle tickets are $100 each or three for $200 and may be purchased online. The winner’s name will be drawn during the Gala; raffle ticket holders do not have to be present to win.

“This year’s event is going to be great! We’re excited to be holding it at the brand new Irving Convention Center, the perfect setting for a night that means so much to so many,” says event co-chair Mike Tesoriero, who is sharing the duties with his wife, Nicole. “My favorite part of the evening is bidding on the many wonderful live and silent auction items –from home goods and special events to luxury travel and jewelry this event has something for everyone.”

For more information or to make a reservation for the 2011 GRACE Gala, go to www.gracegala.org or call 817-305-4654.

An image of a family bowling and dining

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