19th ANNUAL CASA SPEAKS FOR KIDS GALA – “A Night in Oz: There’s No Place Like Home”
More than 500 guests filled the ballroom at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center for a magical evening in the Land of Oz on Saturday, January 25th, 2014. This year marked the 19th year of the CASA Gala, which boasted the theme, “A Night in Oz – There’s No Place Like Home.” The ballroom was transformed into a glamorous Emerald City in rich hues of green, black, and gold. Hosted by long-time CASA supporter and friend, Dana Tyson of Sunny 99.1, the annual event raised over $300,000 to support CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County’s ongoing efforts in providing a voice for abused children.
This year’s CASA Gala – presented by TETRA Technologies, Inc. – provided guests with a large selection of silent auction items, including tickets to Houston Rodeo concerts, a football autographed by Johnny “Football” Manziel, fabulous art pieces, and stunning jewelry.
The live auction included fantastic trips to California, Lake Tahoe, Cabo San Lucas, and Key West, plus a pair of custom RJ Boots by local boot maker to the stars – Rocky Carroll. Guests enjoyed a special performance from Wizard of Oz, The Musical by Stage Right Productions, including a perfect rendition of “Over the Rainbow.”
“This year’s Gala surpassed all previous revenue goals thanks to a great committee and our fantastic supporters,” said Ann McAlpin, Executive Director of CASA Child Advocates of Montgomery County, “It costs $1200 to support a child with a CASA Advocate for one year, so this single event will allow us to provide Advocates for over 250 children.”
After the heart-warming story of Advocate Jennifer Reitmeyer and her efforts to find little Bailey a forever home, the Fund a Child pledge drive kicked off with a $10,000 anonymous donation, inspiring guests to give over $100,000 – a record-breaking amount!
Thank you to our sponsors, event underwriters, and volunteers for making the night an incredible success. A very special thank you to the 2014 CASA Gala Committee (led by Chair Deanne Biles and Vice-Chair Joni Barker) for their time, talent, and amazing effort to take us all “over the rainbow.” We hope to see everyone again for our 2015 Gala!