Rob Giardinelli
Organization Hosts Dazzling, 007-Inspired CASABlanca Event
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Ray Carlin and Jim Cowen of Grapevine Photography
THE SCENE: The Hall on Dragon in the Dallas Design District was the recent setting for a fabulous night of fundraising benefitting a very special cause. A sold-out crowd featuring over 400 of Dallas’ next generation of sociables, advocates, and philanthropic leaders turned it out for CASABlanca benefiting Dallas CASA.
THE VIBE: The Casino Royale theme meant the youthful crowd donned their finest black tie ensembles for an evening of regal revelry. The evening began on the red carpet where guests posed for photos as a keepsake for the evening. Once inside, partygoers cozied up to the bar to grab one a cocktail with many opting for the evening’s signature drink, The Queen of Hearts, which tied to the event theme and got everyone into a giving and festive spirit.
Many revelers took a seat at their favorite game table including blackjack, craps, and roulette. Others took advantage of the impressive spread of passed hors d’oeuvres, and the Asian food station. During the evening patrons also had the opportunity to peruse a luxe silent auction. Some of the most popular packages included tickets on semi-private jet airline Aero to Aspen or Cabo San Lucas, jewelry, sports experience packages, and a year of Whataburger. The energy of the entire evening was kept high courtesy of The Special Edition Band whose tunes kept the party going…and people on the dance floor all night long.
THE NON-PROFIT: CASABlanca Dallas, co-chaired by Brooke Donelson, Hannah Harpole, and Amanda Rodriguez, raised funds for Dallas CASA. The event was hosted by the CASA Young Professionals Group, which grew its membership by 66% in 2023. The organization provides services to through volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates to protect and assist victims of child abuse in the court system. In 2023, 49% of the new advocates were in their 20s and 30s.
