New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services, who was recently named 2020 Non-Profit of the Year at the annual Chamber Celebration, will host their upcoming fundraiser “Casino Night” on Feb. 15.
Karla Ward, executive director of New Beginnings said this event is their largest fundraiser.
“The funds we receive go to direct services and provide match dollars for our grants we receive,” Ward said. “Without matching funds, we would lose those grants.”
New Beginnings serves clients through advocacy and therapy services and served 800 primary and secondary victims in their seven-county region last year alone.
Brad Youngman, with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, serves as the non-profits board chair.
“Because of my work in law enforcement, I have a unique understanding of the important work that New Beginnings does and feel a need to support them in any way that I can,” Youngman said. “I think the numbers say volumes about what New Beginnings does and the support that is needed in the community. Everyone knows that Owensboro and the surrounding area is fairly safe, but when you look at the numbers and the stats regarding how many calls New Beginnings answers and how many clients they serve, it is surprising.”
To raise funding for the support services offered, the non-profit hosts a unique event that offers casino-style entertainment, a large variety of silent auction items and food.
“We have so many generous sponsors and love having a huge turnout so that we can recognize those sponsors, our community partners, and celebrate the staff and volunteers,” Youngman said. “Funding is so important for us to provide these all-important services.”
This year’s event will include a few new components along with a catered meal from Moonlite and Funbucks for attendees to be able to play at the game tables.
“The dealers at the tables really make it fun for everyone and new this year we will have a dessert auction. Several local bakers have donated their time and talent to bring us some delicious desserts for patrons to bid on,” explained Karla. “Chad Benefield from WBKR will be our special guest auctioneer for this event, and we will also be selling tickets for the reverse raffle. Someone will have the opportunity to win up to $2,500.00.”
Less than 50 tickets remain for the almost sold-out event at the Hines Center.
“We encourage the community to come out and have a great time,” Ward said. “It’s a fun event, and your donation will go directly to help our children and adults in our own community who have been sexually abused.”