Austin’s Big Night For Fundraising For Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Central Texas

Annual Ice Ball Celebrates Organization’s 20 Successful Years

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Chris Caselli and GypC Girl Photography

THE SCENE: The JW Marriott in Austin was the recent setting to kick off the Capital City’s fall social season that celebrated a milestone for one of the region’s most anticipated galas. Several hundred of the city’s community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the 20^th Annual Ice Ball benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. The night featured touching tributes, emotional reunions, and an impressive fundraising total.

THE VIBE: The black-tie optional crowd featured a seamless mix of ballgowns and tuxedos along with cocktail dresses and suits with several opting to wear blue ensembles in honor of the Ice Ball theme. that created a welcoming environment for all who attended. During the cocktail hour, guests sipped on their favorite spirits and perused an array of luxury items in the curated silent auction. The 20^th anniversary of the gala also served as a reunion of sorts… many event chairs from previous Ice Balls who were on hand added to the warm environment throughout the room.

The festivities then moved into the JW Marriott ballroom for the main program where revelers were greeted by music string ensemble Barton Strings. KVUE’s Quita Cuplepper served as emcee, effortlessly keeping the crowd entertained while ensuring the festivities flowed at a fun, brisk pace. As partygoers dined on their multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders. Highlights from the program included a touching testimonial with a Little Sister Robin and the Big Sister Hannah who shared an emotional story about how her Big Sister has positively impacted Robin’s life in profound, transformational ways. Additionally, Christine and Blake Absher were honored with the Ice VII Award for their tireless support of both Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Texas, and the Ice Ball over the years.

Next, came a spirited live auction helmed by Auctioneer David Ackel, which featured an array of luxury experiences including a culinary trip to Spain, special concert tickets and a suite to see Usher at the Moody Center, and a beach side getaway in Bali among other great packages. The night was capped off with honoring Candy and Rhett Stone with the organization’s first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award for their four-decades-long relationship with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Texas, creating a full-circle moment to perfectly round out the night.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 20^th Annual Ice Ball, co-chaired by Jason Vitanza and Philisa Giannoukos, raised over $850,000 for Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Texas. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit programs designed to create life-changing friendships and mentorships with school-aged children and adults, who serve as caring mentors who help them reach their ultimate potential.