2024 Annual Gala

Celebrating 52 Years of Friendships

November 8, 2024 | 5:00 - 9:00 PM

The Crescent at Eau Claire Event District

5775 20th Ave, Eau Claire WI 54703

Does your business or organization want to sponsor this event?

Learn about our different sponsorship opportunities here. For questions or to purchase your company’s additional discounted group tickets included with sponsorship, reach out to Cherity Nelson, our Operations Director.

 

2024 Gala Sponsors:

 

Presenting Sponsor:

 

Impact maker Sponsors:

Match Maker Sponsors:

 

Friend Sponsors:

 

EVENT SCHEDULE: 

Schedule of Events: 

5:00pm-6:30pm: Check-In, Cocktail Hour, Silent Auction, Exhibits, Games, Raffles, & More 

6:30pm-7:30pm: Plated Dinner, Cocktails, and Silent Auction 

7:30pm-9:00pm*: Event Program and Fund the Need

9:00pm*: Check-Out 

*End time is subject to change day-of depending on the overall flow of the program. The agency’s goal is always to have attendees leave before or at 9:00pm. 

Annual Gala  

Step into a world of boundless possibilities at this year's highly anticipated Big Brothers Big Sisters Annual Gala! Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with hope, inspiration, and the power of mentorship. On November 8th, our Annual Gala will transport you to a place where dreams come true, and lives are forever impacted. 
 
Prepare to be immersed in an enchanting atmosphere, adorned with breathtaking decorations and twinkling lights that mirror the shimmering potential within each child we serve. As you mingle with fellow champions of mentorship before your plated meal, you'll feel the electric energy of a community united in the belief that every child deserves a bright future. 

Throughout the evening, you'll witness the stories of resilience, empowerment, triumph, and transformation that epitomize the Big Brothers Big Sisters mission. Each moment will touch your soul and reaffirm the immense impact of a mentor's unwavering guidance. 
 
But it doesn't end there! Get ready to bid on exclusive auction items, where luxury, adventure, services, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences await your eager participation. Every winning bid is not just a prize to treasure, but also a beacon of hope for a child on our waiting list yearning for a mentor's guiding hand. 
 
As the night draws to a close, you’ll be asked to support our Fund the Need, our ask for financial support. Together we will revel in the celebration of how far we've come, and the incredible journeys yet to unfold. Let your impact and the impact of others move your heart knowing that together we're empowering a generation and creating a brighter tomorrow—today.  
 
Don't miss this extraordinary evening of impact, camaraderie, and inspiration. Reserve your place or sponsor today and be a part of the life-changing magic that is the Big Brothers Big Sisters Annual Gala. 

Do you want to register a different way or do you need an invoice? 

Contact our Operations Director Cherity Nelson at cherity.nelson@bbbsnw.org

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How do I purchase tickets?

A: Tickets for the Annual Gala is sold in 3 ways: Individual Tickets at $125 each, 8-Person Table Rate at $920, or through Sponsorship. You can do all three right here on our website, or send an email to our Operations Director, Cherity Nelson, if you’d like to connect about alternative registration options.

Q: Are there any group rates?

A: Yes! An Individual Ticket is $125 each but if you purchase an 8-Person Table Rate at $920 you save an additional $80!

Q: What is the event dress code?

A: Semi-Formal

Q: When should I arrive?

A: Cocktail hour and Check-in will be from 5:00pm - 6:30pm.

Q: Where do I park?

A: There is free parking available at the venue.

Q: What are my meal choices?

A: Dinner will begin at 6:30pm and your plated meal will be brought to you at your assigned table. Please select from the following meal options when registering:

1.  Prime Rib, Parsley Baby Red Potatoes, Green Bean Almandine & Caesar Salad

2. Grilled Salmon, Parsley Baby Red Potatoes, Green Bean Almandine & Caesar Salad

3. Stuffed Manicotti with Marinara Sauce, Green Bean Almandine & Caesar Salad 

4. Please email cherity.nelson@bbbsnw.org for any Dietary Restrictions!!!

Q: Can I request a special meal for dietary purposes?

A: We strive to create an inclusive space for all of our guests. If you have an allergy or other restrictions that have not been accommodated by our choices, please inform Operations Director, Cherity Nelson, and she will notify the culinary team at KP Katering.

Q: Will there be assigned seating?

A: Our sponsors and supporters mean so much to us—to ensure an amazing event quality for all of our guests, table assignments will be given to you at check-in and via email the day of the event.

Q: What is the event program like?

A: During our program we kick-off with an interactive game called “Heads or Tails” and then we hear some inspiring stories about matches and individuals our agency is honored to recognize. We close the evening with our Fund the Need program and the closing of our auctions and raffles.

Q: Will there be any opportunities to network or connect with other attendees?

A: Yes! Cocktail hour is a great time to mingle with other attendees, meet up with your party, take pictures, bid on silent auction items, and more!