This year’s gala proceeds will benefit HIV West Yellowhead and the Jasper Cancer Action and Support Group.
“This is the event’s fifth anniversary,” said Andrea Quick, executive director of HIV West Yellowhead. “We have a DJ, dancing, silent auction, raffles and some fun ice breakers to get people mingling and meeting new ladies.”
Host Papa George’s creates a “fine culinary spread,” complete with unique touches, like last year’s pink whipped butter. There will also be special drinks and delectable desserts.
“People really get dressed up. Everybody dances,” said Laurie-Ann Reddick, a member of the cancer action and support group. “It’s a whole range of ages, which I think is really nice.”
The idea for a gala originated through Silvie Walsh, who remembered working the coat check as a child at a ladies gala her mother attended. “She really wanted to have something like that and help raise money for two different causes,” said Quick.
The Jasper Cancer Action and Support Group will use its proceeds to help people who are dealing with cancer. “We offer them peer supports, resources ... we’ve also financially helped out more than 50 people,” said Reddick.
The group also supports anyone who wants to get involved in cancer-related activities, like a yoga retreat weekend or relay team. Since this cause is volunteer-based, the group is also looking for more members, she adds.
“In terms of HIV West Yellowhead, most of the money stays locally, but we do have clients that we support from the region that we serve, which is Hinton, Edson and Whitecourt,” said Quick.
Locally, the money contributes to advocacy and awareness regarding sexual health, Grade 8 sexual education workshops, summer programming and the positive community norms campaign.
Many proceeds from the event are raised through the silent auction, and the community has been “very supportive” with donations, said Reddick.
So far, more than 80 per cent of the gala tickets have sold; any remaining ones are available at Bombshell for $45. The event will take place on March 23 with cocktails starting at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. at Papa George’s.
