Rob Giardinelli
Austin’s The One Party For The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tomas Segura
THE SCENE: A gorgeous evening at the AT&T Hotel & Conference Center in Austin was the recent setting for a night that capped off a jam-packed day of fun and fundraising those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget. In total, over 700 of the Capital City’s most notable sociables, philanthropists, and community leaders turned out for The One party hosted by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Southern Texas Chapter.
THE VIBE: The cowboy-chic crowd began the night on the outside terrace of the AT&T Center for a cocktail reception. As guests mingled about the terrace, they reminisced about who bested whom earlier in the day at one of two tournaments JDRF earlier that afternoon: a golf tournament at Lions Municipal Golf Course and a pickleball tournament at Lost Creek Country Club. Additionally, guests could try their hand with a lasso, as well as taking commemorative photos to remember the evening.
The festivities then headed inside to the AT&T Conference Center Ballroom for the main program. As partygoers dined on multi-course meals, emcee Bob Ballou effortlessly kept the festivities flowing at a fun, brisk pace. Attendees were treated to a series of heartwarming tributes and testimonials on how the research of JDRF has positively impacted their lives. Next, Heath Hale and the Cowboy Auctioneers helmed a spirited live auction, the highlight being a puppy that went to one lucky winner. The evening was capped off with music including a dueling-piano recital followed by dancing that ensured the fun continued well into the night.
THE NON-PROFIT: The event, co-chaired Liz and Eddie Seade raised over $2 million for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, which funds research for Type 1 Diabetes. Proceeds raised from this year’s event will go towards the organization’s Fund A Cure Campaign to find a cure for the disease. Since its founding in 1970, the organization has raised over $2 billion dollars which has helped make significant progress in understanding and fighting Type 1 Diabetes.
