APRIL 2019
BY LOIS MAHARG
Last year’s gala was built around the theme of helping prevent suicide.
“This year,” said Patricia Doyle, who co-chairs the Development Committee with Alison Paine, “the gala’s going to be a celebration of NAMI Washtenaw’s 35th anniversary, so we’re going with a theme that’s more upbeat: The Empowerment Gala.”
Activities will begin with a social hour. Guests will mingle and chat over appetizers and beer and wine.
“It’s going to be a little bit fancier this year,” Doyle said. Appetizers will be followed by a full dinner featuring entrees such as poached salmon and cherry chicken, several side dishes, and a salad bar. A celebratory cake will be served as dessert.
A short program will include a showing of NAMI Washtenaw’s newly revised video, which now lists our sponsors, and assorted speakers.
In addition, Doyle said, “outside on the deck there will be a special ceremony to remember those who died by suicide.” Paper lanterns will be released into the air. Also, raffle tickets purchased at the door will be used in a drawing for gift cards to be held near the end of the evening.
Last year’s gala netted over $11,000. This year we’re hoping to raise more. So please show your support by purchasing tickets right here!