The Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club transformed into a black-and-white vintage French circus on April 22, 2017 for the Sources Blanc et Noir Gala. With a classically-dressed magician, contortionist, fortune teller, mime and ringmaster, guests were invited to step back in time to help create a better future for those in need within our local communities.
The event—which promised an evening of mystery and elegance—successfully surpassed the original fundraising goal of $200,000. By securing a total of $220,000 towards social wellness programs, the funds will help strengthen the ability of the Sources Community Resource Centres to respond to the needs of people in the communities it serves. This includes providing poverty relief, community support, and resources for families and children in need throughout the Lower Mainland and Prince George.
With heartfelt wit and charm, Master of Ceremonies Bruce Hayne (President of Sources Community Resources Society) guided guests through the evening, which included dinner, entertainment, and both live and silent auction opportunities. By reiterating Sources’ mission and goals, and the long-term impact of financial support, guests were able to comfortably demonstrate their generosity, knowing their money was going to good use.
For the first time in the gala’s twenty-two year history, the silent auction was upgraded to a digital bidding platform, provided by Givergy. Guests watched the screens around the room light up throughout the evening, as bids rolled in. It might not have been real magic in the air, but it certainly felt it; as the energy in the room buzzed with each new bid.
Live Auctioneer Fred Lee (CBC, The Province, and Vancouver Courier) then brought his unique flair to bolster the crowd into bidding live, resulting in a vibrant verbal ping-pong between the highest bidders. Following the live auction, Sources CEO David Young took the stage and told a heartfelt story that inspired guests around the room to raise their hands and donate. It was ultimately this confluence of factors—propelled by the generosity of guests—that eventually pushed Sources over their original goal by $20,000.
The gala’s theme might have been black and white, but the evening was nothing short of vibrant; a room lit by those hopeful of a brighter future and willing to invest in it. Notable guests in attendance included Hon. Stephanie Cadieux (Minister of Children & Family Development), Deb Salh representing John Aldag (MP Cloverdale-Langley City), Wayne Baldwin (Mayor, City of White Rock), Megan Knight (Councillor, City of White Rock), and Vera LeFranc (Councillor, City of Surrey).
The evening also saw two award presentations: The Sources Community Hero Award was given to Laura Cornale (Owner of Laura’s Coffee Corner), presented by Sources Foundation President Harry White and White Rock Mayor Wayne Baldwin. A Special Recognition of Gordon Hogg (MLA South Surrey-White Rock) was presented by Sources CEO David Young.
The Sources Blanc et Noir Gala would not have been such a success without the generous support of its major sponsors, including Scotiabank as presenting sponsor. Platinum sponsors included B&B Contracting Group, Newmark Group, and TYBO Contracting Group.
To end the night, guests received a black & white grab bag filled with fun and delicious items from many of our generous sponsors and supporters. Contained inside were: a branded pen from Amica at White Rock; coffee from Level Ground Trading; a copy of The Reveal book by author Bryan Sommer of CIBC Wood Gundy; a jelly jar and bottled water from Jelly Marketing (who also kindly provided the bags); Purdy’s dark and white chocolate bars from Dave Lee of Scotia Wealth Management; Purse and Shoe Leather Wipes from Deb Braun; red, white & black candies in an intricate treat box from Forge Properties; and Western Family treats from Save-On-Foods.