A Rat-Pack casino-themed party on the second floor of the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre this coming Friday is expected to raise thousands for Langley children in need of mentorship.
For the fifth year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley is hosting its a spring gala, and once again the event is nearing sellout, said executive director Roslyn Henderson, noting this popular event puts a unique spin on the traditional charity gala.
"This year, we will be returning in style! Imagine a 1960s Las Vegas Casino, jazz music, pressed tuxedos, and glitz all around," said Henderson.
"With inspiration from the Rat Pack era, we want to wine, dine, and entertain everyone throughout this memorable evening. Offering more casino-style table games, on-stage entertainment, and our Big Deal Game Show."
Proceeds from this year's Big Deal Gala will "ignite the potential of young people through the power of mentoring," said Henderson.
With a goal of raising $70,000 this year, Henderson said funds raised will ensure that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley can continue serving more than 400 children and youth this year by providing them with another caring and trusting adult in their lives.
"Never before has there been a more critical need for mentoring. Families are relying on our support, and we are relying on events like these to ensure we don’t let them down," she explained.
Henderson calls it a "night of glitz and glamour" all for a good cause.
"This year's gala promises to be the biggest and best yet, with live entertainment, delicious food, and our exciting Big Deal Game Show. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference while having a great time," she said, noting this year's event will also feature the presence of Okanagan painter Jordan Perkins. Throughout the night, guest can watch him – next to the main stage – create a vibrant animal painting that will then be auctioned off near the end of the evening.
The evening's festivities will be emceed by GlobalBC's Saturday morning anchor Jennifer Palma.
"We're looking forward to another exciting evening of celebrating with the community," Henderson said, pitching the last few tickets up for grabs.
The gala is being held Friday, May 9, starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $150 each and available on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Langley website: langley.bigbrotherbigsisters.ca.
"At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley, we create, invest in, and empower life-changing mentoring relationships for children facing adversity. For 50 years, our organization has been making a difference in the Langley community – matching children and youth with positive role models in professionally supported mentoring relationships that help them achieve their biggest possible futures. Our no-cost mentoring programs strive to reach young people who face adversity and are in need of an additional supportive relationship," Henderson concluded.
