The first ever Boys & Girls Club of the Redwoods Masquerade Ball was a huge success to say the least.  I am honored the board asked me to chair this year's event and am humbled by the generosity and support from our community.

Over the years my husband and I have attended dozens of fundraising events throughout the area and although all unique and important, for the most part they all felt the same.  When I was approached to chair this event, I knew we needed to make our event different... we needed to have a party, and that is exactly what we did!  The amount of work that went into planning this shin-dig was tremendous, but it was all worth it.  We raised over double the amount raised last year, but more importantly, we gained incredible new supporters from this community and created an event that is sure to sell out in the years to come (FYI, we have already had several calls wanting to reserve tables for next year so get on the list now!).

I would like to thank everyone who helped make the BGCR Masquerade Ball possible.  Our "Dream Team" includes, Sharon Buck, Amanda Fernandez, Natasha White, Monica Rose, Amber Larsen and Cary Knudsen.  Special thanks to Ryan Sundberg who not only was awarded with the Lance Madsen "Champion of Youth Award" but also helped tremendously on securing auction items.  I also want to thank Jaison Chand, Elan Firpo, Mayghann Galleger, Moonlight catering, Cheers to you Mobile Bar Service, Humboldt State University Greek Organizations, Rex Bohn, Nazy Javid, Dylan Brown and the rest of the channel 7 North Coast News team who helped make the night one to remember.   Alcohol donations were provided by Harris and K Market- Jim Pastori, Humboldt Distilleries, Humboldt Craft Spirits, Humboldt Cider Company, Redwood Curtain Brewery, Mad River Brewery, Six Rivers Brewery and Lagunitas Brewing Company.  The full list of "Thanks You's", including those who donated to the action are below, but I want to make sure I give a big shout out to our spouses and kids who spent many late nights without "Mom" around as we planned and prepared for this event after working all day at our 9-5's. 

I truly believe the only way to be successful is to have a village of people around you who are all working for the same goal.  The BGCR Masquerade Ball took in a net profit of $72k.  This money will go directly to the club kids and the programs the Boys & Girls Club provides to our local youth.  The amount raised proves that every single donation makes a difference and that it truly does take a village.   

Those in attendance saw tears running down my face as I saw the amount of hands go up volunteering to sponsor a child with our 504 club.  I knew we would all have a lot of fun while sharing our message about what the club does for our community, I did not expect so many to graciously give like everyone did.  In the world we live in right now, it is beautiful to know that over 200 people, from different backgrounds and with opposing political views, can come together and care about our kids so much.  You all have touched the hearts of so many, including mine, and words cannot describe the gratitude I have. 

Gratefully yours,

Betsy Totten,

BGCR Board Member

Masquerade Ball Chair