2008 Charity Events Calendar
January
Saturday, January 12, 2008
8th Annual Journey to a Cure Black Tie Gala
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
833-2873, www.jdrf.org
A black-tie affair that includes a cocktail reception, dinner, entertainment, a live and silent action, plus a Fund-a-Cure auction. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is committed to find a cure for type-1 (juvenile) diabetes.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
SS Shea’s
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
847-1410, www.sheas.org
A new tropical-themed fundraiser that turns the Shea’s stage into a cruise ship. Enjoy reggae, sun, and surf along with drinks from the tropics.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Celebrate Catholic Education Dinner
Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo
847-8373, www.frcdb.org
The foundation acquires, administers, and distributes funds to benefit the educational, religious, and charitable needs of the Diocese.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Sweet Charity
Food Bank of Western New York
852-1305, www.foodbankwny.org
Attendees will feast on desserts, hor d’oeuvres, and a wine, champagne, and coffee tasting plus a themed silent auction offering sports collectibles, romantic gifts, and special items for children. The Food Bank of Western New York provides nutritional food, training, and education options to agencies and their clients, empowering them to make healthy lifestyle choices.
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Friday, February 8, 2008
Breath of Life Gala
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
686-9400, www.cff.org
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure and controlling cystic fibrosis and to improving the quality of life of those living with the disease.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Lasallian 2008—The Marauders’ Ball Dinner & Auction
St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute
874-4024, www.sjci.com
The annual Marauders’ Ball is open to alumni, family, and friends of St. Joes. The Institute is an all-male private college preparatory school.
Thursday, February 22, 2008
Polar Bites
Buffalo Zoo
837-3900, www.buffalozoo.org
The event offers a variety of culinary specialties along with brews and wine from some of the area’s finest establishments. The Zoo’s mission is to provide the general public with an educationally, culturally, and recreationally significant community resource.
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Martini Gras
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
847-1410, www.sheas.org
A Mardi Gras-inspired event that offers live music, food, and riverboat “gaming” to benefit the renowned venue.
March
Saturday, March 1, 2008
SASI 12th Annual Murder Mystery Dinner
Suburban Adult Services, Inc.
805-1555, www.sasinc.org
The theme for the interactive mystery is “Cruising for Cash on the Seneca Chief.” SASI is dedicated to providing physically and mentally challenged individuals with programs and services that will enable them to lead meaningful lives and be as independent as possible.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Ray of Hope Gala
Matthew Foster Foundation
652-1880, www.matthewfosterfoundation.com
Salvatore’s Italian Gardens is the scene for hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and four hours of open bar. The Matthew Foster Foundation’s mission is to help families with children suffering from cancer by providing financial assistance to cover some of the costs involved.
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Treasure Hunt Auction for St. Joseph Hospital Foundation
St. Joseph Hospital Foundation
891-2595, www.sjhfdn.com
Features a Chinese, silent, and live auction plus hor d’oeuvres, refreshments, and a sit-down dinner.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Seasonings
Aquarium of Niagara
285-3575, www.aquariumofniagara.org
Savory servings of food and wine provided by area restaurants and New York State wineries.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
15th Annual Baskets O’ Plenty Auction
Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara Foundation
297-6400, www.opportunitiesunlimited.org/foundation.htm
The auction includes over 200 themed baskets, a side raffle, door prizes, and a fifty-fifty raffle. Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara Foundation aims to provide a long-term source of financial support that ensures people with developmental disabilities have opportunities towards independence and integration within the community.
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Wake
Irish Classical Theatre Company
853-1380, www.irishclassicaltheatre.com
An interactive event that includes a toast to the dearly departed, food, live entertainment, and laughter in Irish fashion. The Irish Classical Theatre Company aspires to present the greatest works of literature.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Gourmet Gala
March of Dimes
691-3805, www.marchofdimes.com
The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
14th Annual Fabulous Feast
Shakespeare in Delaware Park
856-4533, www.shakespeareindelawarepark.org
The event includes a five-course medieval banquet, live entertainment (dancers, singers, combat demonstration, and a Shakespearean skit), and three separate auctions. Shakespeare in Delaware Park has been a Buffalo summer tradition since 1976.
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Saturday, April 5, 2008
Mount-Aritaville
Mount St. Mary Academy
877-1358, www.mt-st-marys.org
The auction fund-raiser is the biggest one of the year and is held at the school. Mount St. Mary Academy is a private, Catholic college preparatory school for young women.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Whine in the City
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
847-1410, www.sheas.org
A food and wine tasting from local restaurants and wineries with live jazz music, benefitting the venue.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Reach for the Stars Creative Black Tie Gala
Make-a-Wish Foundation of Western New York
810-9474, www.westny.wish.org
Guests are greeted by paparazzi and red carpet interviews when they arrive, then it’s a cocktail reception and auction hour followed by dancing and dinner, with a short presentation. Make-a-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Black and White Ball
Sisters Hospital Foundation
862-1990, www.sistershospitalfoundation.org
The foundation supports the mission and services of Sisters of Charity Hospital.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Taste of Italy … An Evening in Venice
The Girl Scout Council of Buffalo and Erie County
837-6400, www.bflogirlscouts.org
A seven-course Italian dinner with select wines and silent, live and basket auctions at Banchetti by Rizzo’s. The Girl Scout Council of Buffalo and Erie County prepares girls and young women to meet the emerging challenges of society.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Annual Awards Dinner & Gala
Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara
297-6400, www.opportunitiesunlimited.org/foundation.htm
Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara, the Niagara County chapter of the New York State Association for Retarded Children, is the largest not-for-profit organization in Niagara County providing programs and services to people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
4th Annual Rock ’n’ Roll Benefit Party
Association for Research of Childhood Cancer
681-4433, www.arocc.org
A Chinese auction, raffles, live music, and a buffet featuring beer, wine, and soda at Father Justin’s. The Association for Research of Childhood Cancer funds the major pediatric research centers in Western New York.
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Thursday, May 1, 2008
31st Annual Everywoman Opportunity Awards Dinner
Everywoman Opportunity Center, Inc.
847-1120, www.everywoman.org
Everywoman Opportunity Center, Inc. helps women to achieve economic and personal self-sufficiency.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Baker Victory Night
Baker Victory Services
828-9500, www.bakervictoryservices.org
A “Ride to Victory” for the Lackawanna-based agency providing assistance to children, youth, and families in need.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Wine Tasting and Dinner
UB School of Management Alumni Association
645-3224, www.mgt.buffalo.edu
Enjoy an informative fun night of wine tasting and dinner with alumni and friends. UB School of Management Alumni Association offers a lifetime connection and provides alumni with valuable benefits.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Blue Moon Gala
Alzheimer’s Association, Western New York Chapter
626-0600, www.alz.org/wny/
Dinner at the Hyatt, along with a silent auction, dancing, and music. The Alzheimer’s Association aims to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Hewitt Awards Scholarship Dinner
Board of Associates of Mount St. Mary’s Hospital
298-2144, www.msmh.org
The board honors one male and one female student athlete at Niagara County Community College.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Canisius Regents Ball
Canisius College Board of Regents
888-8217, www.canisius.edu
Includes the presentation of the annual Canisius College Board of Regents Distinguished Citizen Achievement Award. Proceeds go to help promising young students who would not otherwise be able to afford a Canisius education. The Board of Regents serves as an advisory group to the president of Canisius and the college’s board of trustees.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
8th Annual Red Shield Event
The Salvation Army
888-6213, www.buffalosalvationarmy.org
The Salvation Army provides disaster relief, summer camps, holiday assistance, help for the aging, and more.
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Friday, June 6, 2008
The Bash
American Red Cross—Greater Buffalo Chapter
878-2372, www.buffaloredcross.org
The American Red Cross aims to prevent and relieve suffering. This event has become one of the area’s most popular fundraisers.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
4th Annual Star Lights, Drinks & Bites
Buffalo Museum of Science
896-5200, www.sciencebuff.org
The Buffalo Museum of Science collects studies and provides experience for Western New Yorkers.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
HSBC Bank Caritas Awards Reception for St. Joseph Hospital Foundation
St. Joseph Hospital Foundation
891-2595, www.sjhfdn.com
A night to honor the individuals or organizations that exemplifies the mission of St. Joseph Hospital and the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Cotillion
Buffalo Zoo
837-3900, www.buffalozoo.org
A black-tie fundraiser with a live and silent auction and dinner at the Zoo.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Camp Good Days 7th Annual Black Tie Gala
Camp Good Days
206-0709, www.campgooddays.org
This long-standing camp is dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults, and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges.
Saturday June 21, 2008
Shea’s Wicked Gala
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
847-1410, www.sheas.org
Event to herald the Broadway hit, Wicked.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Women & Children’s Hospital Auction
Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo
878-7000, www.chob.edu
A silent, live, and Chinese auction at Park Country Club.
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Friday, July 25, 2008
Plaid Pants Dinner Dance
Sisters Hospital Foundation
862-1990, www.sistershospitalfoundation.org
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Wines in the Wild
Pro-Zoo Board and the Buffalo Zoo
837-3900, www.buffalozoo.org
Taste a variety of food, desserts, wines, and beers from favorite local establishments, plus basket and silent auctions and live entertainment. Proceeds benefit the Adopt-an-Animal program.
August
Thursday, August 21, 2008
11th Annual Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser
Opportunities Unlimited of Niagara Foundation
297-6400, www.opportunitiesunlimited.org/foundation.htm
Well-known community members serve the drinks. Proceeds help people with disabilities.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Buffalo Spree Best of WNY Party
Shea’s Performing Arts Center
Beneficiary to be announced
634-0820, www.buffalospree.com
Celebrating the best that our area has to offer with a night of fabulous fare, great music, wine tasting, silent auction and the official announcement of our 2008 Best of WNY winners, all to benefit a great local charity. Past beneficiaries include Carly’s Club and Make-A-Wish Foundation of WNY.
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September
Friday, September 5, 2008
Aspiring Artists Art and Wine Celebration
Aspire of Western New York
505-5500, www.aspirewny.org
A night of art, music, and food. Aspire of Western New York works towards community inclusion and a fulfilling productive life for all individuals with a disability.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
A Tribute to Women
YWCA of Niagara
433-6714, www.ywcaniagara.org
Recognizing prominent women from across Niagara County.
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Women of Distinction
Girl Scout Council of Buffalo & Erie County
837-6400, www.bflogirlscouts.org
A night of recognizing the achievement of women, providing mentoring opportunities and funding local educational opportunities.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Winds, Waves and Wines
Aquarium of Niagara
285-3575, www.aquariumofniagara.org
A night of wine and food tasting to benefit the aquarium.
Saturday, September 20, 2008 [Tentative Date]
Castellani 6th Annual Gala: Homegrown Elegance
Castellani Art Museum
286-8201, www.niagara.edu/cam
A silent and live auction where proceeds support the museum’s educational programs with Niagara University students, area schools and the surrounding community.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Plate Expectations
Meals on Wheels
822-2002, www.mealsonwheelswny.org
A night including an auction, food, games, and a few surprises. Proceeds benefit elderly and disabled clients of Meals on Wheels.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Kaleida Ball
Kaleida Health Foundation
881-8260, foundation.kaleidahealth.org
The Kaleida Health Foundation supports state-of-the-art equipment, research, education, community health and wellness programs, and charity care.
October
Friday, October 3, 2008
Harvest Festival
The Hospice Foundation of Western New York
686-8090, www.hospicebuffalo.com
The Hospice Foundation provides leadership in the development and application of hospice and its philosophy.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
SASI Ball
Suburban Adult Services, Inc.
805-1555, www.sasinc.org
A black-tie-optional event featuring dinner, drinks, dessert, and dancing.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Column of Hope, Working Toward a Day Without Pain Gala
Column of Hope—Chiari & Syringomyelia Research Foundation
633-7022, www.conquerchiari.org
Saturday, October 25, 2008
NCCC Foundation, Inc. Annual Gala
NCCC Foundation, Inc.
614-5910, www.niagaracc.suny.edu/foundation
The foundation was established in 1987 to solicit, accept, manage, invest, and distribute contributions to Niagara County Community College.
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Saturday, November 8, 2008
3rd Annual Transformations After Hours
Upstate New York Transplant Services, HSBC
512-7908, www.unyts.org
A unique event showcasing the hidden talents of local business leaders and media personalities that includes entertainment and a cocktail buffet. Upstate New York Transplant Services encourages and coordinates the donation of human organs and tissue for transplantation.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Morlock Foundation Open Toe Shoe Gala
Morlock Foundation, Inc.
842-1300, www.themorlockfoundation.org
Formal event with Chinese and silent auctions plus door prizes. The Morlock Foundation, Inc. is committed to taking away the stress of medical, doctors and hospital bills for families that have sick children.
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Friends of Father Baker Reception
Baker Victory Services
828-9500, www.bakervictoryservices.org
Presentation of the Father Baker Service to Youth Award.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Coffee & Chocolate
Literacy Volunteers
876-8991, www.literacybuffalo.org
A night of rich chocolate and mouth-watering samples as well as appetizers from some of the area’s finest restaurants, plus a silent auction and basket raffle. Money raised will help to train new volunteers and buy materials.
December
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Gala Black Tie Dinner Dance
Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo
878-7000, www.chob.edu
Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo is ranked among the top twenty pediatric facilities in the nation.
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