Rob Giardinelli
AVDA New Beginnings Luncheon Raises Funds For Domestic Violence Awareness
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Daniel Ortiz
THE SCENE: The Post Oak Hotel in Houston was the recent setting for one of Space City’s hottest new fundraising luncheons. Over 200 of the area’s most notable community leaders, advocates, sociables and philanthropists turned out for the second annual New Beginnings Luncheon benefiting AVDA.
and Bob Frank
and Tami Wall
THE VIBE: The cocktail-chic crowd featured a mix of bright colors and floral prints that created a bright, welcoming environment for all who attended. The festivities commenced in the foyer outside The Post Oak Ballroom for a pre-event reception. While guests sipped on one of the events signature cocktails, The Courage Royale, and The Empowerment Julep, they purchased raffle tickets to win various luxury items including boots from Miron Crosby, a Bentley weekend getaway, a five-course dinner at Annabelle Brasserie and more.
Bethany Buchanan
The action then moved to The Post Oak Ballroom for the main programs. While patrons dined on their meals, emcee Stephanie Von Stein Schusterman effortlessly kept the festivities flowing at a fun, yet brisk pace. While patrons dined on their multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders.
and Nini Hale
and Ebony Jackson
Amanda and Steve Schnell
The luncheon was capped off by honoring two people for their support of the organization. Maria Barrios was awarded the Ambassador of Advocacy Award for her longstanding support of the organization. Sophie Marie-Ngu was awarded with the first-ever Young Advocate Award for her efforts to raise funds for domestic violence from sales of her personal jewelry brand.
THE NON-PROFIT: The New Beginning’s Luncheon, co-chaired by Jennifer Caras, Mario Gudmundsson and Courtney Harmon, raised nearly $300,000 for AVDA. The mission of AVDA, which stands for Aids to Victims of Domestic Abuse, is to end family violence by advocating for the safety and self-determination of victims, promote accountability for abusers, and foster a community response to abuse.
