BONNYVILLE – The Roaring Twenties returned to Bonnyville during the Friendship Centre’s Night at the Gatsby Fundraiser Gala. Sequin flapper dresses and black ties filled the C2 field house for the annual event on Oct. 18.
Red velvet stanchions led to the venue with flapper girl circus performers, wine glass towers, crystal and feather centre pieces, and possibly the largest charcuterie board Bonnyville has ever seen.
Organizer Janet Gobert from the Bonnyville Friendship Centre gave glowing remarks about the evening.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming success of our Night at the Gatsby Fundraiser receiving an abundance of positive feedback. Many attendees shared that this event truly exceeded their expectations,” said Gobert.
Cold Lake 4 Wing military band played as the crowd entered the venue, setting the mood further. Throughout the evening, it was noted how important the Bonnyville Friendship Centre is to the community – from the creation of food hampers and the food bank to the many social services offered.
The friendship centre relies heavily on the support of the community through both corporate and individual donations.
After a land acknowledgement, everyone stood as Little Island Cree drummers performed an honour song that filled the room with drumbeats and Indigenous song.
A video message from local schools then showed children thanking the Bonnyville Friendship Centre for making sure they always have lunch.
Gobert spoke about the friendship centre’s upcoming project to build a women’s shelter and transition home and extended her gratitude to the sponsors and the Town of Bonnyville for helping move the project forward.
“This achievement is a testament to the power of true collaboration and unwavering support. We are deeply grateful to all involved,” said Gobert.
She took the microphone to share her appreciation for not only the ongoing support of donors, but also thanked her team for going above and beyond to make the evening possible.
“Let's enjoy this evening together, have fun, and create lasting memories,” said Gobert.
Sponsors were acknowledged and door prizes and a live auction took place before the band The Ramifications took the stage, and the dance floor filled up.
Gobert said she was thankful for everyone’s generosity and reports that in the coming weeks they will share the total amount raised.