While some may shy away from turning 40, Austin Street Center is celebrating its 40th anniversary at its “Humble Beginnings Luncheon” with a great lineup.
Taking place at the Hilton Anatole on Friday, October 27, the fundraiser will be co-chaired by longtime supporters Ashlee and Chris Kleinert, and the keynote speaker will be the 66th Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice.
With Lynn McBee serving as honorary chair, the event will honor Nancy Best with the 5th Annual Norm Hitzges Distinguished Service Award “for her never-ending commitment and support of Austin Street for over 30 years.”
Another presentation will be the Leadership Award going to Southern Methodist University “in recognition of its dedication to the center since its founding.”
According to Austin Street CEO Daniel Roby, “Austin Street Center is proud to have such an inspirational leader like Secretary Rice join us as we celebrate 40 years of hope, healing and home. Reaching this milestone is a tremendous achievement, and it would not be possible without a servant leader like Nancy Best, whom we have had the privilege of working with these many years and will honor with our organization’s most prestigious award.”
With funds raised from the event, Austin Street Center’s new facility will be able to continue “serving 500 homeless neighbors daily, making it the largest emergency shelter in the area. As a trusted partner and innovative provider, the City of Dallas selected Austin Street to be its coordinating partner for inclement weather. When the City activates its inclement weather policy (when temperatures rise above 105 degrees heat index or dip below 32° degrees overnight, or 36° with precipitation), Austin Street provides shelter and meal services to individuals in need.”
As Chris explained, “There are more than 4,000 of our neighbors experiencing homelessness each night across Dallas and Collin Counties. This is a critical issue we face in our community. Having been involved with Austin Street Center for years, Ashlee and I know first-hand what a transformative organization Austin Street is for its clients and the city of Dallas.”
Moderating the conversation with Dr. Rice will be Jeanne L. Phillips, who “worked with Secretary Rice during the George W. Bush administration.”
Sponsorships ranging from $2,500 to $100,000 and tickets starting at $150 are available here.