American Cancer Society’s Gala Of Hope
SARATOGA SPRINGS – The Hall of Springs at Spa State Park will undergo a magical transformation to a land where dreams and wishes of a voyage towards a cancer-free world become possible on Saturday, Apr. 18. That is the evening of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Eleventh Annual Gala of Hope.
“This event is the American Cancer Society’s only premier black-tie event dedicated to raising awareness and funds in the fight against cancer.” Said Michele Mack, American Cancer Society’s Eastern Division Senior Manager for Distinguished Events. The proceeds that are raised go to fund programs such as the HopeClub, a support community for anyone whose life has been touched by cancer. HopeClub is the hub of all the American Cancer Society’s patient and family service programs in the Capital Region.
This year’s theme – “Road To The Emerald City” draws a parallel between the journey Dorothy, Toto and her friends experienced, with the road to a cure and the treacherous journey that anyone affected by cancer must take. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a complete experience, replete with champagne, live and silent auctions, live music by the New York Players’ City Rhythm in addition to a gourmet dinner.
The area’s businesses have donated extremely tantalizing auction packages for bidding, running the spectrum of every conceivable avenue of interest. Some of the many items that will be available on Saturday include:
- A custom emerald/diamond pendant donated by Hannoush Jewelers
- Health/wellness package for two – donated by Vent Fitness, Complexions Spa and Fleet Feet. This includes gym membership, personal training, consultation with a nutritionist, sneaker package, spa membership, gym bag and more.
- Yankees VIP tickets and transportation – donated by Classic Environmental. This includes four tickets to game in a VIP suite, luxury party coach transportation, beer/wine and food.
And rest assured, the above is but a small, yet representative sample of what will be available.
“The American Cancer Society is truly honored to have so many local business leaders involved in our life saving mission,” Ms. Mack noted. “The Gala of Hope showcases the strength of our community and the passion that fills the room as we celebrate all cancer survivors and those we have lost.”
During the evening, the Beacon of Hope Award will be presented to the Milot family and the employees of Protective Industrial Products of Latham for their efforts to raise awareness and money through community volunteerism, corporate support and ACS special events. Of particular note was their effort to design the first safety eyewear for women, which was branded with the American Cancer Society’s iconic pink ribbon—and a portion of proceeds are donated to ACS.
Today, it is an unfortunate fact that it is a rare family whose lives have not been touched by cancer. With a cause this powerful and a mission so worth undertaking, it is not surprising that several local volunteers help to make up the Gala of Hope’s organizers:
“I am honored to be among such committed and dedicated volunteers who give so much of themselves to truly making this event a wonderful success. Cancer has touched so many of us and we recognize that our strides do indeed make a difference. I march confidently with so many people in mind - both friends and family I have lost, as well as those currently and courageously fighting the fight.”
-Event Co-chair Christianne Smith, Owner of designsmith studio.
“This is my first year serving on the Gala committee and I’ve been deeply impressed by the dedication and motivation of this group of volunteers who so graciously give their time and talents and work so tirelessly to make this event such a great success year after year. I joined the committee because, like so many of you, cancer has touched my life and affected my loved ones and me very deeply. When it did, the ACS and HopeClub were there to provide support and to make things just a little more bearable.”
- Taunia Lin Kipp, Founder & Chief Technology Publicist at Competitive Velocity Business Solutions
There’s no greater calling than to unite with your neighbors throughout the region and join them on the Road to The Emerald City and the journey to support the fight against this insidious disease.
For more information or to purchase tickets to the American Cancer Society’s Gala of Hope, visit acsgalaofhope.org or call (518) 220-6932.
