It was a lucrative night for Langley Lodge, but moreover it was a fun night full of endless laughs and lots of camaraderies.
More than 130 people came together Saturday at Cascades Casino for a common goal, to raise money and awareness for a seniors care home in the heart of Langley City.
While totals are still being confirmed, it’s believed the seventh annual Caring Hearts Gala raised in excess of $15,000, that has been earmarked specifically for therapeutic recreation programs and activities to benefit the residence of the Langley Lodge, explained Mike Brown, chair of the Langley Care Foundation – the fundraising arm for the lodge.
“It buys some of the extra goodies” that help make their lives more enjoyable and fulfilling, Brown elaborated.
While a debriefing meeting isn’t set to happen until next week, all indications are that “We did okay. Now, next year, we need to come up with something new,” again, he said, noting that the theme and the entertainment are key to the gala’s success.
This year, they had Tracey Bell impersonating celebrity woman, and her act was weaved in with a roast of long-time Langley volunteer and retired Langley City fire chief Jim McGregor.
“Tracey Bell was a fantastic entertainer, and we’re grateful to Jim for graciously allowing us to put him on the hot seat, like that.”
Brown suggested next year they might bring in a tribute entertainer, maybe pay homage to Elvis or Neil Diamond.
“The success of the annual Caring Hearts Gala demonstrates the strong community support for local seniors who live in residential care. The compassion in the room was palpable; everyone gave generously so that we can continue to deliver music therapy, pastoral care and horticulture therapy for the next year. Thank you Langley,” said Debra Hauptman, CEO of the Langley Care Society.