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Hundreds of guests, including people we support, families, employees, and community members tuned in virtually for Advocates 4th Annual Gala: There’s No Place Like Home on Thursday, November 19 for an hour of heartwarming videos, Wizard of Oz themed fun, and silent auction. Thank you to the wonderful sponsors and friends who raised $250,000 to help provide services and supports to more than 30,000 individuals and their families at Advocates.
The virtual gala matched the energy of an in-person event, kicking off with a lip-syncing video featuring staff from Advocates Life Skills and Learning Center. Our host, Nick Stevens, entertained us between videos spotlighting people served and their staff decorating their home for Halloween; a social distancing car parade at one of Advocates’ recovery homes in Worcester; and a beautiful rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by members of Advocates Peer Specialist Team.
The theme of home played throughout the event as guests joined our host during the live portion of the event. Advocates president and CEO, Diane Gould, thanked sponsors and guests. She remarked, “We believe that for all of us, having a good life in the community starts with a place to call home—where we feel safe. Where we can rest, recharge, and find comfort.”
David Thuku, shared living transition coordinator, spoke about the dedication of our direct support staff in group living environments. Jessica Kemp, chair of the Board of Directors, shared similar sentiments about staff who have gone above and beyond in recent months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jessica shared, “Our staff are so devoted to the people we support in homes at Advocates—they care for them like they would their own families.”
Lastly, a grateful parent, whose son and daughter reside in a group home at Advocates, shared the family’s journey in a heartwarming testimonial video that included family portraits. Capping off the event was another fun lip-syncing and dance session featuring a wide range of staff and community members.
