An unforgettable evening of generosity, community spirit, and celebration raises $270,000 for local programs!
HOOD RIVER — What a night! United Way of the Columbia Gorge celebrated its 40th anniversary in style at its 16th Annual “Be the Light” Black & White Gala on Saturday, October 10, at the Best Western PLUS Hood River Inn.
The evening brought together community members, local businesses, nonprofit partners, and longtime supporters for a night of celebration, entertainment, and giving. And the results were worth celebrating!
The Gala raised an incredible $270,000, surpassing last year's fundraising total of $265,000!
Guests arrived dressed in their own interpretations of black and white, setting the stage for a festive evening featuring delicious food, lively auctions, entertainment by the talented Columbia Gorge Dance Academy, and plenty of smiles at the Paparazzi Tonight Photo Booth.
The live auction was a highlight of the evening, featuring an exciting collection of experiences, including international getaways to France, Spain, and Mexico, a Seattle Seahawks Monday Night Football package, Portland Trail Blazers tickets, a Willamette Valley wine country escape, and an exclusive private dinner experience at The Garage in Bingen.
But the most meaningful part of the evening came when guests heard firsthand how their generosity changes lives right here in the Columbia Gorge.
Three local nonprofit leaders shared the impact of their work: Livia Christensen of Youth Empowerment Shelter, Kez Comstock of Play Frontier and Becky Bugge of FISH Food Bank. Their stories highlighted the importance of supporting local programs that provide food security, safe shelter, youth opportunities, and essential services for our neighbors.
“What a wonderful way to celebrate 40 years of United Way serving the Columbia Gorge!” said Caroline Grew, Executive Director. “I’m so grateful to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, Board and Council members, and everyone who made this evening possible. It’s inspiring to see what our community can accomplish when we come together.”
A special thank-you goes to longtime United Way supporter and Hood River Council President Gordy Sato, who has dedicated 31 years to the organization, and Board member Barb Ayers, who served as the evening's emcee alongside auctioneer Andy Lindberg.
United Way also extends its sincere appreciation to the Best Western PLUS Hood River Inn team for their exceptional hospitality and generous support, along with the many local businesses and individuals who donated auction packages, sponsored tables, and contributed to the evening's success.
40 Years of Making a Difference
For four decades, United Way of the Columbia Gorge has brought people and resources together to strengthen communities throughout Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Klickitat, and Skamania counties.
This year, United Way is supporting 34 local programs that address critical community needs, including food security, housing stability, health and mental health, education, and youth empowerment.
Help Us Reach $300,000!
While the Gala has already broken last year's fundraising record, United Way has one more milestone in sight: its $300,000 fundraising goal.
With just $30,000 to go, the organization is inviting the community to help close the gap and make an even greater impact across the Gorge.
Whether you attended the Gala, donated an auction item, sponsored a table, or simply believe in the power of neighbors helping neighbors, there is still an opportunity to be part of this milestone year.
To learn more or make a donation, visit unitedwaycolumbiagorge.org.
Here's to 40 years of community, generosity, and making a difference in the Columbia Gorge and to all that we can accomplish together in the years ahead!
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