The GRACE Gala returns to the Irving Convention Center this year after a three-year absence. Key GRACE volunteers and staff: (l-r) Gala Co-chairs Vic and Tina DeVincenzo, Shonda Schaefer, Lynda Warner, Lara Hohweiler, Daveen Miller, Christina Cates, and Leslie Casey
The GRACE Gala will mark its 17th year by returning to the site of some of its greatest successes. For the first time since the 2016 Gala, the event will be held at the Irving Convention Center (ICC) on Saturday, November 7.
The GRACE Gala began a six-year run at the ICC in 2011, enjoying the expansive spaces, convenient valet- and self-parking, and impressive features like the copper-clad façade and easily accessible lobby and check-in areas.
Major construction in and around the ICC in subsequent years made holding a luxury, black-tie event difficult at best.
“It’s great to be back at ICC,” said Lara Hohweiler, GRACE Director of Community Engagement. “The Grand Ballroom has always been the perfect place for the Gala.”
Now with all of the construction completed, the location can now boast of nearby hotels, restaurants, and world-class entertainment venues.
Guests will enjoy easy drive-up access, and valet service with registration and check-in at the first floor lobby just as they exit their cars. Waitstaff will be circulating with passed wines.
Elevators, escalators, or stairs will deliver guests to the amazing view of North Texas through the shaded perforations in the fourth floor copper sheathing. Guests can stroll through the wide glass-enclosed mezzanine and the outstanding offerings of the Silent and Big Board Auctions.
“Our Gala has grown into the area’s most well-known black-tie event, and we are so blessed to be celebrating its seventeenth year back at the Irving Convention Center,” said GRACE Chief Executive Officer Shonda Schaefer.
The Gala is the single, largest fundraising event for the agency, and revenues from the event are used to fund the many programs and services offered to GRACE clients throughout the year.
“I’m very proud that monies raised at the Gala go to help our neighbors in need.” said Shonda. “We are so grateful to the Irving Convention Center for helping us find new and exciting ways to lavish our guests in grand style.”
Sponsorships for the black-tie event are available. For more information, please contact GRACE Events Manager Christina Cates at 817-305-4672, or Lara Hohweiler at 817-305-4653.
