On Saturday, May 13, registered nonprofit River Kids is hosting a Gatsby-themed fundraising gala to benefit families with sick or injured children and youth under 18 years old. The event will feature a big brass swing band, the Supersonic Hearts Band, gourmet catering, a silent auction, signature cocktails and a live painting.
The Gatsby Gala will transport those in attendance back to the glamour of the 1920s. Everyone is encouraged to dress up and celebrate the organization’s achievements while supporting a great cause with flowing champagne in a password-protected prohibition room and speakeasy.
Tickets are $125 a seat and can be purchased at the Peak or online at Eventbrite; the price includes a gourmet dinner offered by Point Group Hospitality (owners of Costa Del Sol and Coastal Cookery) and a welcome cocktail.
The event will take place in Dwight Hall on Walnut Street in Townsite, and 100 per cent of the proceeds will go directly to River Kids.
River Kids is based in the qathet region and offers financial assistance to local families with a child suffering from a health crisis. The organization aims to ease the burden of unexpected medical costs, such as transportation and accommodations, which can quickly become overwhelming for families.
The volunteer-run group does not discriminate based on income, aiming to help families with any sort of financial hardship, according to its founder Cait Holmes.
“We also assist with funeral expenses if a child passes away,” said Holmes. “Our goal is to alleviate some of the financial stress families face during difficult times and help them stay together.”
Holmes explained that River Kids was born out of a personal experience when her own son suffered third-degree burns. While in the emergency room, she realized the financial burden that can come with a sick child and wanted to help families going through similar experiences.
Holmes said her hope is that the event will sell out, as proceeds will go directly to helping families in need.
“For me, River Kids is all about making the world a little bit better place,” she added, “ and setting an example for my children to give back and that it takes a whole community to help families through these types of situations.”
The gala is set to take place on May 13, and while the event is already 50 per cent sold out, there are still tickets available. River Kids hopes to raise as much money as possible to continue to support families with sick or injured children in the community.
