Thank you for making a difference!
The season now upon us is a time for gifts and giving and our Dining to Make a Difference fundraiser in November reminded me of the overflowing generosity of our community. I am so very appreciative and grateful to all of you who supported our second special event to improve the lives of others through grassroots community philanthropy. I want to sincerely thank those of you who gave your time, energy, and most importantly your financial support, to benefit The Arc of Howard County and Project SEARCH of Howard County. Collectively, we are reinforcing our commitment to strengthening our community by highlighting the important work being done by our local nonprofits.
The list of businesses that supported our fundraiser is long. First and foremost, Mark Hemmis of Phoenix Upper Main, and Simon Cortes, of LaPalapa Grill & Cantina, donated 20% of their day’s sales. Mark and Simon are two of those small business leaders who always step right up to support worthy community fundraisers.
The list of volunteers who offered their time is extensive, and I’m so very grateful to each and every one of them. It takes a community of motivated, selfless people to execute a successful fundraiser. Once I told Michelle Wildman of SteelFire Kitchen and Bar that I was hosting another fundraiser, she spoke 6 words, “Would you like me to help you?” Umm, YES PLEASE! She donated her time, expertise, and talent to procure and organize our raffle and auction baskets. She also took charge of organizing the volunteers. Not an easy feat when the event is held in two locations. She's an incredible and caring person and we were fortunate she chose to play such a large role in our fundraiser.
I want to extend a very special thanks to Barbara Moyer, The Arc of Howard County’s Director of Marketing, Communication, and Events. Barbara was involved from the beginning and attended every planning meeting whether it was online or in person. She used her resources whenever possible to help elevate our event. The Arc’s staff worked closely with us the entire day of the fundraiser and I’m so very thankful for them.
I’m especially appreciative to our eleven community leaders who agreed to get “arrested”. They worked hard to raise “bail” until they had raised enough money to earn their “freedom” once again. Our gang of “offenders” was critical in helping us reach some lofty fundraising heights. Thank you to everyone who donated to our Jail and Bail detainees, I appreciate your generosity!
Some special shout-outs to our friend Yanira Colon created a joyful welcome for dining guests at The Phoenix and LaPalapa with her beautiful balloon displays. Yanira, the owner of Perfectly Wrapped, magically transforms any space to enhance your event. Please reach out to her for all of your events, big or small.
And to Kerian Lally who entertained us throughout the evening with his diverse musical talent. His awesome sound and positive vibe were a wonderful added touch. Thank you!
Thank you to Jason Dawson with Makers Woodshop for constructing our faux jail! It was passed around throughout the day and evening - everyone loved it!
And to BJ Singh with Event EQ, thank you for the banners! You are amazing!
And Breakthru Beverage Group is donating $1 per special Tito's drink sold through the end of the year at LaPalapa and The Phoenix! Thank you, Ryan!
Please remember these people and companies when you, or someone you know, are in need of a service that they provide.
Because of this collective effort, I’m thrilled to tell you we raised $16,540.79 for The Arc of Howard County and Project SEARCH off Howard County! Now THAT’S THE WAY to spread holiday cheer!
You have really made a Difference in the Lives of People with Disabilities! Thank you.
So many businesses donated products and gift certificates for our raffle and auction baskets. It was an impressive array of small, local businesses who contributed to our event, along with a few top-shelf, adult beverage companies:
Red Bird Bar & Grill
Tito’s Vodka
And there are some very special people who stepped up with their own personal contributions to our cause. I am so fortunate to consider them among my friends.
Michelle Wildman, Pete Della-Croce, Shelley Sharkey, Mary Beth Dulin, Sherri Carky
I've always enjoyed giving back and am committed to continuing to find ways to do so. If you'd like to join our philanthropy team and be notified of our next fundraiser and see how you can help, please click the button below.
0 Comments