Middlesex Club Joins Hands Across Middlesex to Raise $27K!
by Dave Cryer
On a Saturday evening this past March 20th, almost 300 people gathered for over four hours of food and fun... the 2010 Spring Gala in Urbanna, Virginia. Held in the main hall of the Bethpage Conference Center just outside Urbanna, off the Rappahannock River, it was indeed a very special occasion for all. Not only was it a chance for Kiwanis members and guests to come together for a great, fun-filled evening, it was also a chance to raise much need funding for the many projects of the Kiwanis Club... and so much more.
What made this Gala so special is that almost six months ago an idea was born to join two groups together to help our community. We all are familiar with the many projects and activities of the Kiwanis Club. In this instance, the Kiwanis Club of Middlesex joined with the group, Hands Across Middlesex, to Host our Gala.
Hands Across Middlesex is an area organization that has multiple roles. It operates a food pantry, constructs handicapped ramps and other special need accommodations, operates a clothing and furniture barn (outlet), helps to install well and septic systems for homeowners without them, provides home repairs to insure seniors and others in need can stay in their homes, and so much more, all without ever presenting a bill. In the past Kiwanis has supported and volunteered to help with many Hands projects.
The Gala, as mentioned, was a fundraiser for both organizations. It featured an incredible meal and entertainment. The main part of the evening involved auctions and games including silent and live auctions, a ladies table with a balloon game, dice throw game, penny raffle, and more. A large amount of merchandise and services had been donated by area businesses and individuals for prizes and gifts for the games and auctions.
As the evening ended the Kiwanis-Hands partnership had not only raised over $27,000 for its projects but the partnership forged new friendships that in the future will continue to benefit both groups and our community... and, of course, it was a wonderful evening of fun, fun, and more fun.
