AVDA Safe Home Gala Triumphs In Houston

Organization Breaks Fundraising Record And Honors Board Chair Emeritus

Photography by Daniel Ortiz

THE SCENE: The Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the recent setting for a night of fun for a worthy cause with the result being a record fundraising success for the organization. Over 270 of Space City’s top community leaders, advocates, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand to support the Safe Home Gala hosted by Aid of Victims of Domestic Abuse, also known as AVDA.

THE VIBE: The cocktail-attired crowd featured a mix of traditional cocktail wear along with an elegant mix of bold colors, and prints that created a warm, welcoming environment for all who attended. The night began with a lively cocktail hour in The Post Oak Ballroom Foyer where against the backdrop of live music, guests mingled while sipping on their favorite spirits and previewed live auction items full of luxury experiences.

The action then moved to The Post Oak Ballroom for the main program. As partygoers dined on a delectable, multi-course meal which was capped off with Mastro’s legendary butter cake, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders showcasing how the organization fights tirelessly to prevent and assist domestic violence victims in the Houston area.

Next came a spirited live auction which included packages such as an exclusive golfing weekend at The Olympic Club, a Bentley weekend rental, and a Colorado getaway being the most popular. A Paddles Up followed, which included a surprise match that netted over $350,000 for the organization. The program had an emotional, impactful conclusion with the lights lowering and flameless candles lights for all guests to “be the light” in bringing domestic violence out of the shadows.

THE NON-PROFIT: The Safe Home Gala, co-chaired by Caroline and Matthew Monday and Julia and John Stallcup, raised over $725,000 for AVDA. The organization provides a range of services for those who have experienced domestic abuse, including legal representation, counseling, and youth programs focused on healthy relationships to help end the cycle of abuse. Since its founding in 1980, the organization has provided services for over 100,000 survivors of domestic abuse.