Oh, what a night the guests at The Charles C. Sprague Sage Society dinner had hearing about tales of faraway places and adventures few people have experienced. Taking place at “a local country club” on Tuesday, October 24, The Senior Source fundraiser’s keynote speaker was “local boy” Victor Vescovo, who had conquered the depths of the sea and the world’s tallest peaks.
Ironically, in addressing the organization that supports the needs of senior citizens, Victor’s next challenge is being part of the Colossal Biosciences project to bring back the Woolly Mammoth. Here’s a report from the field:
On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, a crowd of 140 philanthropists gathered at “a local country club” for The Charles C. Sprague Sage Society’s 24th Annual Dinner and Program, hosted by The Senior Source, co-chaired by Elizabeth and Eric Gambrell, and underwritten by Bank of Texas. More than $230,000 was raised from Sage Society members that will go towards sustaining vital programs and services for seniors in our community.
Preston Hollow resident, Dallas native, and St. Marks School graduate, Victor Vescovo, captivated members with stories from exploring the deep sea, climbing the seven highest summits, and space travel. At 57 years old, he inspired guests to never stop learning, reaching for more, and pushing ourselves to do more than we think we can, regardless of age.
Vescovo shared that the most dangerous summit he climbed was on the highest mountain peak of an island on Earth, called Carstensz Pyramid in Indonesia. “You have to suspend yourself on ropes and pull yourself across the chasm,” Vescovo said. “Of course, just like anything else that is difficult in life, you practice, you train, and if you put your mind to it, you can accomplish almost anything. You just have to mitigate risk as you go.”
So, what’s left to explore for the man who has seemingly done it all? Well, Vescovo shared that he is currently serving on the board of advisors of Colossal Biosciences where they are trying to bring back extinct species like the Woolly Mammoth, that have been exterminated by man. Vesocovo said, “It’s exciting. That’s a different type of exploration” He’s also mentoring young explorers in new endeavors.
The event’s décor encapsulated wonder and exploration as well. The centerpieces featured exploration and adventure-themed books for guests to donate to the The Senior Source’s Friendly Visitor Program serving nursing homes and the Foster Grandparent Program serving children of 0-18 years of age. Wonder is ageless and the desire for discovery should be inspired at every stage of life! Maps, compasses, and globes were sprinkled throughout the venue and coins that were found near the Titanic were on display.
A myriad of guests in attendance included Pam Busbee, Christie Carter, Chad Park, Ellen and Bob Dill, Sandra Estess, Suzy and Larry Gekiere, Margo and Bill Goodwin, Peter Hegi, Kathy and Larry Helm, Katy Miller, Lydia and Dan Novakov, Lynn and Den Bishop and Rebecca J. Wynne. Sewell was the valet sponsor, and Bank of Texas made it possible for 100 percent of the members’ contributions to directly benefit the agency’s services.
If interested in becoming a member of the Sage Society, please contact Chief Development Officer, Caroline Marak, at [email protected].
* Photo credit: Kristina Bowman