More than two hundred patrons attended The Advocates’ Annual Gala: Black & White Soiree June 25, 2010, and raised $200,000 to benefit The Advocates for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (www.theadvocates-aplacetogo.org). The annual fundraiser was held on the grounds of Trail Creek Cabin with proceeds funding life-changing services for more than 500 women and children in need, and free community-wide prevention education for more than 3,000 students, annually.
“The Gala sponsors, committee, board, volunteers, staff and donors enable The Advocates to provide much needed services to the victims of domestic violence,” said Executive Director Tricia Swartling. “We are especially grateful for the tremendous spirit of generosity displayed by our sponsors, donors, board, volunteers and patrons. The Advocates benefited from the tremendous commitment of time and talent by gala co-chairs and directors Joy Kasputys and Katherine Schroder, silent auction chair and director Eeva Pregitzer, and vice president of the board Margaret Block.”
“Recent studies have shown that the effect of domestic violence on children is amongst our biggest public health issues, yet it is a health issue that is 100 percent preventable,” said Children’s Program Coordinator Darrel Harris when addressing the evening’s attendees. “Children who live with domestic violence learn very early, and in no uncertain terms to hide their family’s dark secret…If one person can change the course of a child’s life, imagine what we could do as a community. If we come together as a community and speak out against domestic violence, we will provide a voice for these kids.”
The elegant evening featured Black & White-themed décor accented with purple orchid centerpieces by Kurt McAuley of Botanica. Guests mingled, dined and danced to The Sensations, and bid on an impressive assortment of live and silent auction items. Auction lots included luxury travel, elegant parties, exceptional beauty and wellness products and services, home and garden items, delectable food and wine experiences, pampered pets and more. The $25, $50 and $100 mystery gift boas featuring mystery gifts in the $25, $50 and $100-ranges sold out.
“In Blaine County, we have approximately 5,000 children under the age of 18 and statistically 22 percent, or nearly one-quarter of them are living with domestic violence. The Advocates educates students from kindergarten thru the 12th grade by going into the classroom and talking candidly about domestic violence,” stated Harris. “The impact can be profound. Literally, hours after a presentation to a fourth grade class this year, a boy brought his mom to The Advocates’ protective shelter…Prevention through education is a key component of ending domestic violence.”
Sponsors: Platinum Sponsors: Marilyn, Joe and Joy Kasputys, Gold Sponsors: Margaret and Christopher Block, Charles Schwab and St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center; Silver Sponsors: Anonymous, Carson International, Inc., Marquita and Charles Dunn, Mountain West Bank, Laura and Scott Jordan, SCOTTETVEST, Inc., In Memory of Robert D. Seibel and Zions Bank.
About The Advocates for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Led by executive director Tricia Swartling, The Advocates for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (www.theadvocates-aplacetogo.org) is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit with the mission to prevent domestic violence and sexual assault in our communities through education, shelter and supportive services. Since 1991, The Advocates has helped more than 5,000 women and children in our community leave violent relationships behind and rebuild their lives. The Advocates’ free essential services are available in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day and include a staffed shelter, counseling, and legal guidance. Vital funding support is realized through the Annual Fund drive. Additional funding sources include The Advocates’ Attic Thrift Store, the Annual Chip-In for The Advocates Golf Tournament, The Annual Gala Auction, and public and private foundation grants.
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Media contact: Leigh Barer, Development and Communications Director, The Advocates for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault; Tel: 208.788.4191, Email: leigh@theadvocates-aplacetogo.org
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