Can you believe it? The 20th Annual GRACE Gala has come and gone, and we are still in awe of what an amazing night it was. Filled with good food and drink, inspiring stories, live music, and an overflow of generosity, this will forever be a night to remember!
Led by co-chairs Madeline and David Ricci, the 2023 GRACE Gala took place once more at the Irving Convention Center in Las Colinas. A record 900 guests attended to show their support for the GRACE mission! With everyone dressed to the nines, they filled the space to browse the auction, purchase jewelry from the Kendra Scott pull, and take photos at both a fun selfie wall and with a professional photographer before finding their seats in the ballroom.
To kick off the evening, David Lown, director of jazz bands at Southlake Carroll Senior High School, played a beautiful rendition of “Amazing Grace” on his saxophone. Then, NBC 5’s Laura Harris, present as the emcee for the 5th year, got the exciting program moving! Along with Stacy Pacholick, Interim Executive Director, they shared stories about why GRACE matters – why the Gala is so important to the mission. Madeline and David Ricci shared about how their journey with GRACE began, and how they were moved to chair this year’s event.
The annual Angel of Grace award was presented to the Tom and Susan Durant Foundation. This award is a tradition that GRACE has held on to for many years and represents an individual or organization who embodies the mission of GRACE, and the Tom and Susan Durant Foundation is more than deserving!
Throughout the evening, guests also had the opportunity to see the premier of three news videos that highlight some of the work that GRACE does – the food pantry, Transitional Housing, and the Community Clinic. Thank you to Mallard Agency for your passion and dedication, as well as your incredible talents in filming and editing these videos!
Once dinner had been served, Jedd Trice of Foundation Auctioneers stepped up to lead a very exciting live auction – the energy was high as guests bid on the variety of fun packages. The winner of the raffle, a trip for 2 to Montana, was also announced!
Finally, the Stratosphere band took to the stage and got everyone on their feet with a set list of hits that everyone could dance to. They brought so much fun and talent to the evening!
Overall, it was a Gala to remember fondly for years to come. You could truly feel the support and generosity flowing through the room. We wholeheartedly thank every person who played a role, big or small, in making this Gala such a success – and we hope you will join us again for the 21st Annual GRACE Gala on November 2, 2024!
