On Thursday, March 28th, H.E.R.O. for Children, Inc. presented its 16th Anniversary Celebration & Fundraising Dinner. The evening included a VIP reception/cocktail hour where patrons had the opportunity to mingle with the evening's special guest, H.E.R.O. Founding and Honorary Board Member, Coach Vince Dooley. Attendees were also able to place bids on a range of silent auction items - from specialty foods and jewelry to artwork and singular travel experiences.

 

H.E.R.O. Board Chair and Fundraiser Host, Greer Monin, commenced the dinner with opening remarks and a welcome to attendees. Next, Board Member Stacey Rivers acknowledged and thanked our event sponsors. The program included remarks from Executive Director, Donna Drakes, who discussed H.E.R.O.'s progress and future. Assistant Camp High Five Director (and former camper), Tylah Hankerson, delivered a moving speech regarding the impact of Camp High Five in her life, as well as the lives of  current campers. Next, H.E.R.O. Co-Founders, Ryan Gembala and Garrett Gravesen, offered special "Thank Yous!" to patrons for their years of support, recalling the startup days of the organization on the University of Georgia's campus. Former UGA player, Cory Phillips, recognized Coach Dooley with an H.E.R.O. award for his years of unwavering commitment to the organization and its children. Laughter filled the room as Coach Dooley humorously recalled his initial interactions with Ryan and Garrett, and shared his delight with H.E.R.O.'s accomplishments. Garrett continued the hilarity as he facilitated the evening's live auction. Afterwards, Ryan stepped up to orchestrate our paddle raise, allowing guests to make monetary donations in support of our Super HEROes Mentoring, Camp High Five, Transition to Adulthood, Holiday of HEROs, and/or Bright HEROs programs.

 

The evening concluded with a surprise presentation to Board Chair Greer Monin, who was awarded the H.E.R.O. Angel Award for her unrelenting dedication and service to the organization and its clientele.