Assistance League raises $81,000 at its annual gala

TALK ABOUT busy days – Assistance League members are just now catching their breath after two big events. First came their 2023 fundraising gala, “Rock and Roll Are Here to Stay” down at Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, followed by their annual year-end luncheon when they passed out awards to some of their hardest-working members.

The gala, co-chaired by Jill Williams and Brooks Cima, was a “Grease”-themed evening that featured a “Malt Shop” menu, music from the 1950s, and a room full of partygoers dressed for the theme. DJ Joseph Mire kept the crowd dancing all night while Elvis (Ralph Elizondo) had the teeny boppers swooning. Clear Creek High School Sound Waves performed Doo Wop songs that set the mood for the nostalgic evening. And, best of all, amid all the fun, they raised $81,000 to support their philanthropic programs through a combination of event ticket sales, raffle tickets, silent auction purchases, and direct giving in their Reach For the Stars campaign.

Melanie Lovuola and Cindy Castille chaired the Decorating Committee, Lisa Holbrook led Reach For the Stars, Sandra Kelver served as treasurer and Jayne

Dannacker coordinated the raffle, and also provided the sports car for the photo ops. Charlene Donovan coordinated the silent auction, Jill Smitherman worked on both programs and marketing, while Linda Byrd and Badiha Nassau handled reservations and HEB donated the beautiful table arrangements.

The 2023 award winners are: Cindy Senger Lewis, Sue Holstein Award; Cindy Castille, the Ada Edwards Laughlin Award; Betty Suagee, Sue Brady Award; Sharon Dillard, who was unable to attend, the Ann Banning Leadership Award; Dr. Greg Smith, H.O.P.E. Award; and Ruby and Javed Ashraf, owners of Galaxy Dresses in League City, the Glass Slipper Award given to a non-member individual, company, or group for significant contributions to Operation Cinderella.