Rob Giardinelli
With A “Boots & Boggie” Theme, The Gala Saddles Up With A $1.2 Million Night
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Daniel Ortiz
THE SCENE:
The Revaire in Houston was the recent setting for an incredible night of fun and fundraising. An enthusiastic crowd featuring several hundred of Space City’s most notable community leaders, children’s advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the annual Camp For All Gala. This year’s gala theme, Disco Rodeo: A Boots & Boogie Ball, ensured a great time was had by all, resulting in a seven-figure night for the organization.
THE VIBE:
The sequin and fringe-chic crowd featured a wide array of fun ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot patrons in sequined ensembles and bold, colorful prints that seamlessly blended with Stetsons, boots, and Texas bow-tie looks. The result was a warm, festive, and fun environment where everyone felt welcome.
Kicking off the festivities was a lively cocktail hour. After guests cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite beverage, they mingled with the crowd. Others could be seen perusing the impressive silent auction, which featured a range of luxury items, including diamond huggie earrings courtesy of Tenenbaum Jewelers, artwork by Hunt Slonem, and a Lake Travis getaway package.
The crowd then headed to their seats for the dinner and main program. 93Q Country personality Katelyn Maida served as event emcee, keeping the night’s festivities flowing at a fun, yet brisk pace. While partygoers dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to remarks from the organization and event leaders thanking them for being part of such a special evening.
A highlight of the program was an emotional testimonial from former camper Sebastian Driver and his mother, Garia Moore, who beautifully told how “camp is where Sebastian learned how to be himself.” The emotional speech brought tears to many and brought the crowd to their feet.
Next, the Charles Jago Elder Foundation, represented by Sarah Hastings, Mary Fleming, and David Lummis, as well as immediate past Camp For All Board Chair Julie Taetz were honored for their longtime dedication and support of the organization that has positively changed the lives of so many children, adults, and families in the Houston area.
The evening continued with a spirited live auction. Revelers raised their paddles and the fundraising total to an array of five-star experiences and travel packages. The most popular items of the auction were an Argentinian Dove Hunt and a Say Oui to Paris.
Concluding the night was a special announcement of Camp For All Chappell Hill, which will be the organization’s second camp location. Scheduled to open in the summer of 2027, the second camp will allow the organization to double its capacity and increase the life-changing impact for many in the Houston area.
THE NON-PROFIT:
The 2026 Camp For All Disco Rodeo: A Boots & Boogie Ball, chaired by Kendall and Matt Chucla and Lauren and Conrad Gibbins, raised over $1.2 million for Camp For All. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding programs and initiatives that fulfill the organization’s mission to provide barrier-free camping experiences for children and adults with challenging illnesses, disabilities, and special needs. Providing services to nearly 9,000 children, adults, and families in the greater Houston area each year, which is done through collaborations and partnerships with more than 65 additional nonprofits.
