Annual gala inspires 400 during incredible evening

May 22, 2017

By Grace Brennan, Donor Relations & Events Manager

Opening Minds. Changing Lives. Together. That saying could not have been truer than on Saturday, May 20 when more than 400 Opportunity Partners champions gathered for our annual gala. This spectacular celebration blended inspiring family stories, exciting silent and live auctions, delicious food, and generous guests and sponsors who support our mission of advancing the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Here are a few excerpts from families who shared their “mission moments” at the event.

“I can’t begin to tell you what a difference OP has made in our lives. … As a mom, it has always been scary to think about what will happen to Stacie when I’m gone. It means so much for me to know that with the support of Opportunity Partners, Stacie will be OK.” – Sharrol Dziedzic

“Our lives have not only been blessed by having Annie as our daughter, but we are also blessed to have such a wonderful program which enriches and gives so much meaning to Annie’s life.” – Therese Hetchler

“We all want and need a community – a place of safety where we belong – a feeling of fellowship with others and where we share common interests, attitudes and goals. Zach has this community in Opportunity Partners, and we are grateful.” – Katy Thuleen

Special thank you to our 2017 Gala Committee, our corporate sponsors, table hosts, event donors and volunteers. I also want to give a shout out to our co-emcee Stacie Dziedzic, Glen Fladeboe of Fladeboe Auctions, and everyone who turned out to make the evening truly unforgettable! We’ll be sharing results and more photos very soon!