JEANS & JEWELS GALA RAISES CLOSE TO $700,000 FOR NORTHWEST ASSISTANCE MINISTRIES
HOUSTON— Saturday, October 20, 2018, was a big night as over 500 guests came together at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Jeans & Jewels Gala…A Texas Size Party. The 2018 Jeans & Jewels Gala raised close to $700,000 for NAM’s programs and services.
This year, the gala honored past Gala Chairs over the last 20 years, dubbing them “The Jewels of NAM”, along with Corporate Honoree, Houston Methodist, and Judy and Glenn Smith leading the way as honorary chairs. Broadcast journalist Meera Nandlal served as the mistress of ceremonies and delighted gala attendees with her captivating smile and cheerful banter with Nolan Lehmann, who acted as auctioneer.
Last year’s popular life-size replica of a horse made of disco ball-like mosaic tiles made its return to greet guests, along with painted statuesque horses – and a little pink unicorn - that were set up throughout the room. Beautiful turquoise linens draped the tables adding a touch of elegance to the rustic western themed centerpieces. On the opposite side of the room, a dance floor and lounge area decorated with all white sofas, chairs, and candelabras were set up for guests to let loose and relax. A full bar and silent auction tables divided the room.
After the live auction guests had the opportunity to “Stand Up for NAM” and make cash donations via smartphones. After watching a compelling video and listening to Brian Carr, NAM’s Chief Advancement Officer make a touching plea to the audience, in just a matter of minutes more than $200,000 was raised to help support NAM’s Meals on Wheels program.
The evening concluded with NAM’s first ever Young Professionals After-Party Gala presented by PurePoint Financial. The after-party included a live performance from Skyrocket! the band. The cover-band from Austin, TX was a big hit and had everyone out on the dance floor. There were also video arcades, casino tables, and a photo booth for everyone’s entertainment.
Just this year alone, all of the Jeans & Jewels events together have brought in over $770,000 for NAM’s programs and services.
Northwest Assistance Ministries is a non-profit, community-based social service agency that strives to meet basic human needs through Neighbors Helping Neighbors. NAM provides assistance in areas such as food, shelter, health, education and domestic violence awareness and intervention. During its last fiscal year, NAM touched the lives of more than 129,000 people through its many programs and services.
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