North Texas fundraising on Saturday, November 9, at the Hilton Anatole had the black-tie set out to salute the efforts of adult volunteers, who have served as Big Brothers and Big Sisters. With a special nod to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Dallas‘ Military Mentoring program, the Big Black Tie Ball hauled in more than $500K for the organization. Here’s a report from the field:
The Big Black Tie Ball, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Dallas’ largest annual fundraiser, highlighted Military Mentoring at the Hilton Anatole on Saturday, November 9.
The event began with a warm welcome from CBS 11 News This Morning and News at 11 Co-Anchor Russ McCaskey, who then introduced the returning Ball Chairs Sabrina and Dr. Field Harrison of Mint Dentistry. The event raised $510,000 and brought out nearly 600 guests who were there to support one-to-one mentoring relationships that help ignite the biggest possible futures for youth. After the invocation was led by the Harrisons, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star CEO Pierce Bush shared the agency’s mission and future, along with The Great Defender Award.
The Great Defender Award was presented by Little Brother Roger to his Big Couple of 11 years, Dennis and James. The award recognizes key individuals in the local community who have exemplified and heightened the mission of mentoring. Roger captured the room with a heart-felt story that applauded his mentors’ great efforts.
“When I was five years old, my life changed forever,” said Little Brother Roger. “My dad passed away and health issues began to arise from internalizing grief. Then my mom signed me up for BBBS. I’m not sure I can even begin to capture in words the extent to which you both have changed me and made me a better person. You guys made a commitment for one year, but now you are my brothers for life. I love you guys!”
BBBS Greater Dallas Market President Jenny Harper welcomed Chintan Thakkar, Executive Director responsible for the audit function for USAA. In representation of USAA, Thakkar presented a $30,000 check to BBBS Lone Star to aid the military mentoring initiative.
“Tonight we are celebrating the most selfless in our communities, our Military families,” said Jenny. “Big Brothers Big Sisters is proud to work with active Military members and Veterans who continue their service at home as Big Brothers and Big Sisters. We are most honored when we are partners in the lives of the children of military families. Though they live each day with a strength and resilience that many of us will never know, they too need a champion in their corner.”
The BBBS Point of Light for the evening was special guest Stephanie Lembo, the mother to a Little Brother in the Military Mentoring program.
“On November 8, 2010 at 3:35 am my best friend, my soulmate, the father to my beautiful boys committed suicide in front of his parents,” said Stephanie. “On November 1, 2017 we walked into the Big Brothers Big Sisters office and there was a six foot plus man with a huge smile on his face, that day we met Lucas’ Big Brother Ryan. Thank you Ryan, you brought hope back into our family, and you just being a part of Lucas’ life, has enriched his future. Thank you Ryan and Big Brothers Big Sisters for being there and not letting me do this alone anymore.”
The night’s festivities concluded entertainment brought by Limelight and a statement of gratitude for the contributions made to impact youth throughout Greater Dallas. For more information on how to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Dallas please visit www.bbbstx.org.
* Photo provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Dallas