At Living Well Disability Services we host our Transforming Lives Gala every year with two goals in mind— advocacy and fundraising. Events like our Gala are essential to nonprofits because they help raise critical funds and help people get a better understanding of what the organizations do. Galas and events are so much more than a parties, they are invitations for sponsors with charitable giving budgets to merge with organizations they want to support and give individuals and families the opportunity to spend time with the people supported and those who live and work to shine a light on the mission of the organization. Obviously meeting fundraising goals is key, but so is reaching new audiences and presenting engaging programming to get more audiences interested in giving time, talent, or treasure. It really is a win-win.
With the mission of delivering exceptional services that transform the lives of people impacted by intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, all of us at Living Well are super excited to host our event for all the reasons above. We have put together a beautiful program that showcases what we do, the people we serve, the extensive and ongoing expenses related to caring for people with disabilities, and the staff who work hard to make the lives of the people we serve better.
While the gala has changed due to Covid still lingering, the result is worth every pivot. This was difficult for sure, but it turns out it is not impossible to pull off a beautiful “event” from afar. This year our Gala may be virtual (for the second time) but we made it special in a few ways. First, we are having a small VIP event outside the original venue. Why do this you ask? Because being outside is a safer way to gather. There will be distance, masks, and a much smaller number of people. This allows us to thank the sponsors and keep them engaged and supportive. Second, we produced the virtual program to feel more like a TV show versus a telethon. And lastly, we invited staff, a board member, volunteers, donors, a couple people who call living well home, a family member, and a caseworker, to tell us why they support and advocate for the ongoing strength of our programming. Hearing from them makes it real and brings the storytelling to life.
It feels great to be able to put together a beautiful program. And it feels even better to raise money for people who deserve every opportunity to thrive. Register today, then grab a tissue and your wallet on October 22nd—we have stellar auction items you do not want to miss out on. Please join us and help us celebrate!
The Transforming Lives Gala is on Friday, October 22, and streams from 7-8 PM. You can register for a FREE ticket at livingwell.org/gala. Auction items are open until 9 PM CST on October 22, with premium items closing an hour earlier at 8 PM. Please note the fund a need and donor options will be available post event, as will the program video which will be posted on YouTube.