Rob Giardinelli
A Powerhouse Crowd Pushes Crime Stoppers To New Heights, Funding Critical Programs That Protect Communities Across Texas
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Wilson Parrish, Daniel Ortiz, and Quy Tran
THE SCENE: The Revaire in Houston was the setting for what has quickly become one of the top annual fundraising events in Space City. Over 460 of the area’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 2nd Annual Raise ‘Em Up for Texas Gala. Benefiting Crime Stoppers of Houston, the night featured touching tributes, a vibrant crowd, and fantastic music, resulting in a seven-figure night for the organization.
THE VIBE: The Texas-chic crowd features a fun and vibrant mix of Lone Star State-inspired attire. In the crowd, one could spot lots of denim and diamonds, with patrons sporting cocktail dresses, tailored jeans, Texas bowties, bolos, and boots. The upscale yet relaxed attire created a warm and welcoming environment for all attendees.
Kicking off the festivities was a lively cocktail hour. Here, guests sipped their favorite spirits, mingled with one another, purchased raffle tickets, and perused an impressive silent auction featuring a curated array of luxury items and experiences.
Guests then headed to their seats for the main program. As revelers dined on a delicious Texas-themed dinner courtesy of Chris Shepherd, Ryan Bouillet of The Revaire, Truth BBQ, and Sysco, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of such a special evening.
Following a series of emotional tributes that highlighted the need to provide more resources for children who are victims of cyberbullying and online harassment, Crime Stoppers of Houston then surprised Chris Shepherd and Lindsey Brown of Southern Smoke Foundation with the 2nd McIngvale Family Humanitarian Award for their longtime support of the organization.
Next, the night’s emcee, Johnny Bravo, helmed a spirited live auction. Attendees raised their paddles for a series of luxury experiences that drove the fundraising higher and higher. Following the auction was a Paddles Up raise, during which many guests demonstrated their generosity by providing direct donations to the organization.
At the end of the program, Crime Stoppers of Houston announced a new Women’s Collective and the launch of the SafeSpace Student Hub, which drew loud applause and cheers from the crowd.
The night continued with a vibrant after-party. Tunes by the Nobody’s Fool band kept revelers on the dance floor well into the night, showcasing their line dancing and other rhythmic moves, capping off a night of fun and fundraising that lived in the minds of attendees long after the last dance.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2nd Annual Raise ‘Em Up for Texas Gala was chaired by Brooke Lee Dana Barton, and Kristen Collins, with Vanessa Ames and Jordan Seff serving as strategic chairs, and raised over $2 million for Crime Stoppers of Houston. Proceeds raised from the event will be used to fund programs and services that support the organization’s mission to prevent serious crime in the Houston area, in partnership with citizens, the media, and the criminal justice system.
