This year’s Annual Spring Auction and Gala was the cat’s pajamas as the Great Gatsby-inspired event raised over $170,000 to support after school and out of school programs for kids. The Great Gatsby Gala was held on Saturday, March 29, at the Santa Maria Country Club, where a crowd of gorgeous guests slipped on their most flapper and dapper garb for an evening of auctions, paddle raises and much more. All were welcomed to throw it back to the Roaring 20s right off the bat as they caught a glimpse of a vintage car, donated by Brian & Roberta Weber for the evening, at the entrance of this fine affair.
Upon the opening of the grand entrance doors, guests were then welcomed in by Boys & Girls Clubs staff, as well as a sweet sip of champagne to entertain them as they perused the luxurious silent auction items galore. The draped beams created an elegant atmosphere that flowed into the bar filled with raffle tickets and a photobooth, as well as the ballroom next door decorated beautifully with hand painted bottles and feathers for all to see. CEO, Maria Fabula, welcomed all attendees and started the evening honoring Anna Libbon, Chief Program Officer, with an award for her 35 years of service to the Boys & Girls Club followed by an equally impressive award to Donna France for her 25 years serving on the Board of Directeors. Sue Anderson, President and CEO of Dignity Health Central Coast served as the Keynote Speaker with a lovely video presentation that motivated and inspired by the crowd. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Mid Central Coast Youth of the Year for 2024, Ruth, a senior at Pioneer High School in Santa Maria also spoke about the impact her Club experience has had on her and her goals for her impressive future.
The live auction was swell — guests placed their highest bids on prizes such as trips, dinners and once-in-a-lifetime experiences like none other. Continuing the generosity throughout the evening, many raised their paddles in the spirit of giving back during the Have a Heart portion of the event. When the night began to wind down, dozens of special someones snuck their way into the VIP speakeasy, where they drank in the delights of some spirits while taking in the sounds of Dawn Lambeth and her jazz trio.
The following sponsors contributed generously to the success of the event: Dignity Health, Allan Hancock College, Leavitt Coastal Valley Insurance, Astound Business Solutions, CenCal Health, Driscoll’s, Hardy Diagnostics, PETS Hospital, Pacific Premier Bank, Rotary Club of Santa Maria Breakfast, SpaceX, American Riviera Bank, Community Bank of Santa Maria, Santa Barbara Foundation and Community Health Centers. Cheers to our wine donors: Pelletiere Estate, Bovino Vineyards, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines and Sweetzer Cellars.
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