Gala Gratitude

10.19.25

The morning after.

Truth be told, at the beginning of this year’s gala preparations period, it seemed we might in be doomed; the venue we thought we had secured was – in fact- not. Many – not just a few- of our regular attendees were scheduled to be away, coincidentally. People who typically are present to help throughout the process were experiencing challenges in different directions. From the point of view of a development person, this lot of hurdles, taken together, was definitely cry-worthy.

However, there’s no time for or help coming from worrying. Ever really. Just dig in and get it done. Focus on gratitude, and hurdles became little bumps, and eventually smoothen out, silk-like, metamorphosing into a glade of wonderfulness.

The people at Rivers have been truly amazing. From the day of looking for a new venue, Sydney and then Amanda were there with reassurance and professionalism unrivaled by previous venues. Throughout the process of detailing our event, at every stage and step, they were thorough, communicative and delightful to work with. The day of, we met Renee who oversaw our event; Renee was phenomenally helpful and completely went above and beyond expectation to offer assistance, and make everything perfect for us. Prince handled the technological details for our audio, visual and was patient, gentle and efficient, a focused genius. Throughout the evening, we were treated like royalty by the service team, and everyone at Rivers. We can’t thank them enough.

Then there was our team of celebrities. Zac Barr, our beloved dj of 16 or 17 (we’re not quite sure) years, started setting up around 1:30 and brought his magic to the gala once again. Zac is a special human in addition to being a fabulous music maker. He cares deeply about our kids and organization, enough to volunteer his time with us year after year.  This year we were additionally pleased to welcome Susan McElroy, assisting Zac throughout the day and evening.

Heather Morrison, also volunteering her night with us for many years now, was gorgeous and stellar, as she always is. Heather is so full of happy energy that just a hug from her leaves you changed, but when she read the letter from Jessica Friesen, she had many of us tearing up.

Our third celebrity was Dr. Mark Fruiterman, who is not only quick  and feisty as an auctioneer, but also wonderful to work with. He gets us, feels the crowd, understands the needs and works his magic, giving people the chance to change lives.

And the crowd was wonderful. Everyone was in high spirits, uplifted and happy to be present. Kindness and generosity were fluent last night, and that is the way Crossroads people are. Big hearts, big energy, lots of love. Life-changers every one.

We were honored to be able to present 3 community awards last night.

Claire Baldwin was our 2025 Heart of Giving awardee. Claire’s son, Ian Baldwin accepted on her behalf, reading her beautiful letter to the attendees with gusto. Randall Beach from Whiteman Osterman and Hannah spoke in acceptance of the Commitment to Crossroads award, recalling the long-time relationship WOH has had with Crossroads and how working with us all these years has been meaningful for them. As mentioned above, Heather Morrison read the speech written by Jessica Friesen, who with her husband Stewart, was awarded the Community Champion honor this year. We are so thankful to all of these winners who make lives better for our students and others in our community.

Four staffers shined their fabulousness last night as milestone awardees. Agnes Mallory, for 5 years, and Kevin Rushia, Audra Slingerland, and Michelle Grignon for 10 – these greats exemplify what it means to show up every day and commit to something important. 

Thanks to everyone for purchasing tickets, being on our honorary committee, being a sponsor, contributing baskets, placing an ‘ad’ in the program… we are overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness and love we receive from each one of you.  

https://crossroadcenter.org/2025-gala/