First annual gala a red-carpet evening of fun, fundraising

By Sunny McKinnon
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

On Saturday, February 24, Eagle’s Trace rolled out the red carpet and hosted its first annual fundraising gala to raise money for the community’s Benevolent Care Fund.

The Eagle’s Trace fund provides a financial safety net for residents of the community, ensuring that anyone who moves into the community will never be asked to move out if unforeseen medical or life events deplete their financial resources.

‘A Night at the Oscars’
Held the Saturday night before the Oscars presentation, the theme of the evening was “A Night at the Oscars,” and the fanfare that surrounded the event was all Hollywood, complete with spotlights, paparazzi, and red carpet.

Guests, including residents, their families and friends, and business partners of Eagle’s Trace, were ushered into the entry that had been transformed into the lobby of the Grand Hotel.

Upstairs, it was more movie-star glamour with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails in the living room and a seated buffet in the dining room, which had been transformed into a ballroom reminiscent of the famous annual Governor’s Ball. A South Seas movie set with Polynesian dancers was the backdrop as desserts were served in the café.

Guests, in black-tie evening attire, danced to the sounds of Oscar-winning songs provided by an orchestra from the big-band era.

Support should the need arise
Proceeds from the gala benefit the Eagle’s Trace Benevolent Care Fund, which is set up to provide support for residents who, despite careful planning, outlive their financial resources. The fund enables people to remain at Eagle’s Trace and maintain their quality of life.

Comforting resource
“At a time in their lives when they need support the most, our residents receive it. It is very comforting to individuals and their families to know there is a resource available to them, should the need arise,” resident life director Shirley Boothe says.