Swanky Gala raises $27,100 for Youth-Reach Gulf Coast
Swanky Gala raises $27,100 for Youth-Reach Gulf Coast
The recent Swanky Gala was a rousing success, raising $27,100 for Youth-Reach, a residential ministry in Summerdale for young men ages 18-22 who are struggling to overcome addiction and other roadblocks to a productive and happy life. The check was presented by members of The Mystical Order of Aurora, a women’s Mardi Gras association and sponsoring organization for this year’s event, to David Williams and Caleb Davis of Youth-Reach Gulf Coast during a celebration luncheon at Villaggio Grille at The Wharf.
“This is a huge amount of money for us,” said Williams, who has been director at Youth-Reach Gulf Coast since early 2018. “And it says so much about how the community is supporting our ministry. Lives are being changed, physically and spiritually, thanks to the generous donations of so many.”
Eva Keesee, President of the Mystical Order of Aurora, praised sponsors for their donations, especially co-host of the event, John McInnis of The Flora-Bama and Youth-Reach board members Jennifer Blanchard and Polly Andrews. Other major sponsors included Ginny Gilbert and Laine Gilbert of Villaggio Grille, caterer for the event; The Wharf, which provided The Port at the Wharf as venue, and Publix of Orange Beach and Bennie Dalzell, its store manager.
“It takes a village, and we have an awesome village,” Keesee said.
Donna Stump, chair of the Auroras’ charitable committee, thanked the many people who worked to make this year’s gala such a success, including dozens of contributors to the live auction and raffle; members of the community who purchased more than 350 tickets to the event; and Auroras’ husbands and friends, whose time and talents ensured the fundraiser was one of the best ever on the Gulf Coast.
“Next year will be even better,” Keesee promised. “We beat our goal this year, and I am confident that we will do more next year. Youth-Reach is such a worthy cause and has touched our hearts in so many ways.”
To learn more or become involved in supporting Youth-Reach Gulf Coast can call (251) 967-4809 or email Info@Youth-Reach.org.