Gala Co-Chairs Ashley and Andrew Cunningham hosted this year’s Gala Committee Bus Tour – an important event that inspires the true purpose for the Gala: to ensure that every local family in need receives shelter, food, clothing, and medical care.

The group visited the storefront of the Food Pantry, which is intentionally arranged to feel like a grocery store. The heart behind this shopper-select approach is to preserve the clients’ dignity and relay budgeting skills. The Committee also got a behind-the-scenes look at the back of the Food Pantry, a meticulous storehouse that requires regular maintenance, inventory (and plenty of volunteers!)

The Gala Committee walked over to the nearby Community Clinic, which you really have to see to believe. The team was informed of the expanse of medical services the Gala proceeds have afforded the Clinic, as well as preventative education classes such as smoking cessation, nutrition and pre-diabetes care.

The team left with a better understanding of our Donation Station and resale operations, which accounts for much of the in-kind donations and revenue for our operations.

At GRACE Main the Committee was introduced to the Client Services area, often a client’s introduction to GRACE. The compassionate staff at Client Services makes a holistic assessment of each family’s need and collaborates to overcome obstacles together.

As with all our volunteers, we wholeheartedly appreciate the Gala Committee who invest countless hours to make each event our most successful Gala yet.

Interested in taking a tour?

The opportunity to get a first-hand look at our programs is offered to any church, civic group or business that is interested in learning how we meet the tangible needs of families in a day-to-day basis.

Contact Chelsea Rose to get details.