TONTO CARES/ VERDECARES GALA SUMMARY
The 2nd Tonto Cares Gala for VerdeCares was a huge success with the Tonto Verde Community strongly demonstrating that neighbors truly do care about neighbors. Just as VerdeCares has a model working relationship with the fire department to watch over us, we at Tonto Verde have a unique opportunity to fundraise for a cause that gives directly back to the community in which we live. It was a very fun, high-energy event in every way, with 126 people attending the Gala on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, and about 150 people involved, including the non-attending donors and bidders. Many took the opportunity to dress in their Valentines and Gala attire. Upon entering, the attendees were greeted by the Besekes from VerdeCares, as well as by Ken and Beth Holec the Chair and Hostess for the event. Attendees participated in a wine tasting and silent auction bidding on the many high-quality items, all while being serenaded with beautiful piano music during the cocktail hour. Upon entering the dining area, guests were met with beautifully decorated tables, and when seated, were served a delicious meal of filet mignon and jumbo prawns with a lemon champagne sauce by Chef Aaron. The finishing touch was Chef Sarah’s Lava Cake with ice cream. The program included an overview of VerdeCares including a heart-warming story from residents and VerdeCares volunteer Morrie Conway about how VerdeCares had a significant impact on his father, extending the time for him to age in place. A “Fund-The-Need” program and the most energetic Live Auction ever followed with competitive bidding from all corners of the room.
The highlight of the evening was the comedian Mark Cordes, known as “The Spouse Whisperer,” who did a couple of comedy performances during the evening. Mark himself is 69 years old, so his stories and jokes resonated with the attendees. First, Mark played off pre- event survey responses from attendees to questions such as who is right most often, or what is your partner's most redeeming quality. Those responses proved we have many comedians amongst us and gave Mark a lot of cannon fodder with which to work. The evening concluded with Mark doing a clean and hilarious stand-up routine. Many said they hadn’t laughed that hard in years and asked that we bring him back next year if we can. The numbers are now in, and we generated a record $238,000 in proceeds for VerdeCares. In that number are 17 people who donated $5,000 or more and joined a new distinction level called the Tonto Cares Sustainers Circle. These results will be significant in helping VerdeCares meet its top 2025 challenges, including beginning the long journey of succession planning by adding a paid, key Vicki Beseke-like care resource to the staff. Thank you to the many volunteers, HOA staff, attendees, and donors for making this year’s Tonto Cares event a huge success! We are excited to be planning the 2026 Valentine’s Day Gala. Plan now to attend so you don’t miss out on next year’s fun!
7 | COMMUNITY NEWS
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs