Gathering for Good: An Invitation to YouthZone’s Spring Gala
By Ali Naaseh-Shahry, Deputy Development Director at YouthZone
On behalf of YouthZone’s clients, staff, and partners, I invite the community to a landmark event this spring that symbolizes the essence of our mission. With the arrival of spring, a season of renewal and growth, we are thrilled to announce the 1st annual YouthZone Spring Gala, set for May 10, 2024, at The Arts Campus at Willits in Basalt, CO. This gala is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the transformative journey we have embarked on together and our continued commitment to nurturing a bright future for the youth and families in the Roaring Fork and Grand River Valleys.
Since our beginnings in 1976, YouthZone has been dedicated to fostering positive development and creating a nurturing environment for our young people. Our work is rooted in the belief that strong, supportive communities are the foundation for healthy, hopeful futures. Thanks to your support, our work now impacts more than 2,000 community members each year.
The Spring Gala is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our collective achievements and a look forward to the impact we can continue to make together. Picture an evening filled with the warmth of community, the joy of music by The Confluents, and a gourmet feast prepared by the talented chefs Julia and Allen Domingos of Epicure. From the moment the doors open at 6:00 pm, expect an atmosphere brimming with positivity and shared purpose.
Our live and silent auctions, led by the dynamic Blake Menezes, offer not only the excitement of friendly bidding but also the satisfaction of knowing each contribution supports YouthZone’s vital programs. Whether it’s securing a ski pass or discovering a local gem, each auction item is a chance to make a difference. Blake will also facilitate our paddle raise event, where you’ll be able to fund specific YouthZone programs, including court advocacy, substance use education, life skills, mentoring, and parenting support. This year, our goal is to raise $200,000 for these programs.
Choosing to attend means you’re not just buying a ticket to an event; you’re supporting a vision. The standard Seated Show ticket at $300 includes a delicious array of appetizers and dinner, two complimentary drinks, and an evening of unforgettable entertainment and dancing. For those seeking an elevated experience, the VIP Ticket at $450 offers early access, an intimate panel discussion, and additional insights into our impactful work.
This gala is a testament to the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the progress we’ve made, the lives we’ve touched, and the future we’re shaping.
Join us for an evening that promises to be both meaningful and memorable. Together, let’s continue to empower our youth, support our families, and strengthen our communities.
For tickets and more information, please visit www.youthzone.com/spring-gala or contact me directly at [email protected].
We can’t wait to share this special evening with you!
YouthZone is a nonprofit that prioritizes family support for parents, guardians, families, and adolescents. Our services, available from Aspen to Parachute, include parent counseling, education, family resources, and comprehensive assessment and advocacy to foster healthy relationships among youth, families, and communities. For more information and to access our support, visit youthzone.com or call 970-945-9300.
Ali Naaseh-Shahry is a Colorado native who holds degrees in international public policy from the University of Colorado (BA) and University College London (MSc). He moved to western Colorado in 2015 to teach six-and-under ski school at the Aspen Skiing Company. Ali has taught a wide variety of academic and experiential subjects to people of all ages. Most recently, he worked as a special education teacher with the Roaring Fork School District, where he used data-driven decision making to improve his delivery of specialized instruction. Ali enjoys lift-access powder skiing, raft-access fly fishing, and spending time with his cats.