For the second year running, two Langley agencies that share a mandate of caring for the community’s dying, are joining forces on a fundraiser.
Langley Hospice and the Langley Lodge’s Langley Care Society (LCS) and foundation are hosting a Caring Hearts Gala on Saturday, Oct. 17 at Cascades Casino.
Last October, the ‘old Hollywood’ themed bash raised more than $38,000, which was split evenly between both charities.
Naturally, they’re wishing to surpass last year’s tally. But more importantly, they’re hoping to gain a wealth of “invaluable” awareness for the two charities, explained hospice communications manager Shannon Todd Booth.
“It takes a village” to raise a child, and likewise that same village needs to come together to care for its members as they age, she added.
With more and more non-profits struggling to raise much-needed money and awareness in this growing community, Todd Booth applauded the innovation and synergy of this joint venture.
“Last year’s went so well that we realized we could be more efficient, more effective and – ultimately – better serve the community by joining forces once again,” said LCS past-president Terry Metcalfe.
Already ahead of last year’s attendance of 200, this year’s event is expected to bring together more than 300 for a night of dining, dancing, as well as live and silent auctions.
This year, funds raised will support the therapeutic programs, from art, horticultural, and music therapy to pastoral care at Langley Lodge. The lodge is a complex-care facility that has been part of the community for more than 40 years and cares for 139 residents.
For hospice, the funds from this year’s gala will help provide palliative care and bereavement support programs to the more than 5,000 individuals who access their free services each year.
“These types of events provide us with an opportunity to raise awareness and important funding to help us in our mission to provide compassionate support to help people live with dignity and hope while coping with grief and the end of life,” said hospice president Kathy Derksen.
This year, they’re apparently “kicking it up a notch” with the addition of dancing to the musical stylings of a nine-piece show band.
Tony Barton’s Sharp Dressed Man stage show, featuring Langley drummer Kyle Randomsky – the manager of Langley’s Long & McQuade music store – will keep people dancing until the clock strikes midnight.
“Langley residents are encouraged to put on their dancing shoes, and open their hearts and wallets for one heck of a good time – and two very important causes,” Todd Booth said. Tickets start at $150 and are available at caringheartsgala.com or by calling 604-530-1115 or 604-532-4207.