2011 Road to Independence Gala nets over $317,000 for community programs
OAKTON, VA – June 9, 2011 – On the evening of May 13, NVFS’ 2011 Road to Independence Gala took place at the Hilton McLean in Tysons Corner. With nearly 600 guests in attendance, which included a diverse mix of politicians, business leaders and individual community members, it was the largest NVFS Gala to date. Through sponsorships, donations and ticket sales, over $317,000 in net revenue was raised to benefit NVFS programs and services. This incredible outpouring of support reveals the unwavering efforts of the Gala Committee, Board members, and staff who promote the agency’s work to the Northern Virginia community.
“I am proud to say the event was our biggest and most successful Gala ever,” said Mary Agee, president and CEO of NVFS. “Our Grand Benefactor sponsors (BB&T, Capital One, Clark Construction, along with John and Nina Toups) provided a strong foundation of support which allowed us to raise more money than ever before, thus enabling us to help more people than ever before.”
At the end of the evening, John “Til” Hazel, Jr. was honored with the 2011 NVFS Legend of Northern Virginia Award for his dedication and leadership in building and strengthening Northern Virginia, making it a better place to live and work. The Agency was equally proud to honor Dr. Alan Merten, President of George Mason University, and his wife, Mrs. Sally Merten, who has a long history of volunteerism in the arts, education, and health services, as the 2011 NVFS Community Champions.
2011 Road to Independence Gala Auction Success
An array of over 180 unique items were featured in the silent auction that raised $35, 813. Several coveted items, such as a squirrel and nut bowl, a six person cooking class, a signed Redskins football, and freshwater pearls raised over 200% of their value.
A live auction held during dinner featured 8 items, including a chance to meet Matthew Morrison of Glee, vacation packages to North Carolina and Oregon and an authentic Pacific Island luau, raised over $25,000. Through live appeals, an additional $36,700 was raised.