On behalf of the GRACE Gala Chairs and Gala Auction Committee, a special thanks to all who attended the Gala Gifting Party on Thursday at Brio Tuscan Grille in Southlake Town Square.

As usual, our friends at Brio threw a fantastic party, and despite the brief rain shower, guests arrived with gifts in hand to celebrate the new Gala season.

Guests got a sneak peek of the rose-petaled Camaro and Suburban, beautiful reds on the bright white finishes.  The design signifies the 15th anniversary year of the Gala, and the nearly $4.5 million raised over the years to help those in need in our communities.

The car wraps were made by 91 Design, and the use of the cars to promote the Gala was made possible by The Thompson Group at Classic Chevrolet, the title sponsor for this year’s Gala.

Executive Director Shonda Schaefer thanked the guests and relayed personal stories of how their donations make a lasting impact on families looking for hope. Bree Vopelak, president of the GRACE Board of Directors, thanked all the volunteers who have come forward this year.

 

Gala Chair Lynda Warner spoke behalf of the Gala Committee members, who serve countless hours in preparation for a successful Gala. She also introduced Ken Nelson, who will be opening this year’s Gala with a solo a cappella version of “Amazing Grace”.

 

 

The fierce dedication of our Auction Committee, headed by Jackie Meyer and Daveen Miller, and the loyal support of our community provide us with the most outstanding auction items in our area, with every year of the Gala outdoing the one before.

Last night was a glimpse of the variety of donations we receive, such as a beautiful Coach purse and an expensive package of Rodan + Fields skin care products.

Also revealed to last night’s guests was the fabulous 7-night cruise of the Mediterranean that will be part of this year raffle.

Last night’s guests who purchased raffle tickets were entered to win one of three VIP packages to see the Texas Rangers, graciously donated by Stacey and Chris Archer and Erin Jewel.

As elegant as roses, champagne and hors-d’oeuvres are, seeing the generosity of so many businesses and individuals was truly beauty in motion. The community’s genuine desire to see families thrive not only inspires us; it motivates us to ensure your resources serve as many people as possible.

The Gala Gifting Party precedes the Gala, which happens on October 6 this year at the new Vineyard Tower at the Gaylord Texan Resort.

The Gala is the single largest fundraising event for GRACE and revenues from the event are used to fund the many programs and services offered to GRACE clients throughout the year.

Stay tuned for the Gala Gifting Party album on our Facebook page!

For more information on our Gala please visit our event page here.