“Everything is so wonderful!!!”
“Unbelievable!”
“Had a blast!”
“Great evening — your staff was exceptional and you should feel proud!”
These are just a few of the texts that Executive Brooke Bowles received during last week’s J’la Gala fundraiser. She had been laid low by a bout of covid and was heartbroken to be tuning in remotely to her favorite night of the year.
“The J’la is especially important to me personally as it celebrates our mission of service alongside some of our closest friends and supporters — all while making new friends and inspiring new supporters,” Brooke says. “Experiencing the outpouring of support for this place is what makes the J’la my favorite event. While I hated having to miss it in person this year, I’m glad I was still able to watch from afar.”
Highlights from this year’s J’la include:
- Raising $172,000 (some $23,000 more than last year)
- Welcoming 240 guests as part of our ongoing mission to bridge the Jewish and Gentile communities
- During the “Fund-a-Need” part of the program, watching 12 people raise their paddles to each give $1,800 (for a total of $21,600)
- During the “Last Hero” segment, watching a steady stream of 42 donors pitch in a total of $3,780
- Another delicious gourmet kosher meal prepared by Chef Maureen Holt
“Susan and I truly enjoyed attending the J’la,” adds David Silverstein, president of The FiveStone Group. “The evening was full of excitement and the auctioneer was first-rate in selling wonderful auction items. We’re already looking forward to attending next year’s event.”
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Growing Stronger Together at The J
Enjoy the 2024 J’la gallery
Photos by Kristina O’Quinn and David Gonnerman
