Austin: Dell Children’s Foundation Event Becomes A Real Ball

With Becoming Theme, Fundraising Records Are Broken

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Ben Porter Photography

THE SCENE: Austin’s Fairmont Hotel was the recent setting for a night of fun and record fundraising that showcases the capital city’s vibrant and generous philanthropic scene. A sold-out crowd of 500 of the area’s top sociables, community leaders and philanthropists were on hand for the annual Dell Children’s event. This year’s gala theme, Becoming, was on full display as the organization showcased how and why Dell Children’s Medical Center is a world-class children’s medical facility.

THE VIBE: The energy was palpably warm and welcoming from the second guests entered the foyer outside of the Fairmont Ballroom. This is where black tie crowd began their evening with a lively cocktail hour where guests sipped on spirits while mingling with old friends and making new ones. The action then headed into the ballroom for the main program. As guests dined on their delicious multi-course meals, they were treated to a series of performances and testimonials. The highlights of which were an emotional performance by former Dell patient ,Princess Gant, who was accompanied by the ZACH Scott Theatre Academy as well as an inspiring moment led by Dell Children’s Foundation Board of Trustees Chair Nicole Nugent Covert, who introduced Dell Children’s patients from over the years which included then and now stories that showcased how each was becoming an outstanding human being.

Next, Astounding Auctions helmed the Fund-A-Need portion of the evening where patrons were seen feverishly lifting their paddles in support of Dell Children’s. The highlight of the Fund-A-Need was a special appearance by Texas Longhorn Football Players Quinn Ewars and Jordan Whittington, who surprised former Dell patient and passionate UT football fan Rodrick Walker after his family shared the heartwarming story of his recovery from a terrifying car accident. The night was capped off with an after party where revelers toasted an inspiring and unforgettable evening.

THE NON PROFIT: The event raised over $3 million for the Dell Children’s Medical Center. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards the hospitals HERE Campaign, to grow building centers for excellence for a range of medical services including Cardiovascular Care, Neurosciences, Oncology/Hematology, and Maternal Medicine Care fields.