Communities In Schools of Houston’s A Night in Wonderland 45th Anniversary Gala raises more than $850,000 to support students in the greater Houston area
Communities In Schools (CIS) of Houston raised more than $850,000 at its A Night in Wonderland 45th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, April 4th at The Post Oak Hotel, to support students in the Greater Houston area. Chaired by philanthropists Lauren and John Brollier and Cassie and John Milam, with honorary chairs Kirby and Scott McCool and Judy and Charles Tate, the event brought together corporate partners, community leaders, and supporters of CIS of Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering at-risk students to stay in school and achieve in life.
Over 600 guests attended the festive party. Early arrivals were able to mix and mingle at the lively cocktail reception outside the ballroom, enjoying libations among the Queen of Hearts red roses. Many got into the spirit of “Wonderland Whimsey Cocktail” attire, channeling Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts.
Emcee Lisa Malosky welcomed the crowd and introduced Rev. Wick Stuckey of Chapelwood United Methodist Church, who gave the invocation. She then invited special guest Rey Saldaña to the stage, the President & CEO of Communities In Schools’ national organization in Arlington, VA, whose overarching messing was “programs don’t change people; relationships do.” That is the crux of Communities In Schools.
Also, during the program, guests watched a powerful video celebrating 45 years of CIS of Houston history serving students, in addition to hearing from key movers and shakers behind the nonprofit. Featured were former Texas First Lady Linda Gale White, Klinka Lollar and Margot Cater, both early staunch supporters of CIS of Houston, along with the first CEO, Cynthia Briggs.
Additionally, the “ Voices of CIS” allowed an opportunity for a mix of students and staff to come together to share how CIS has impacted their lives. The audience heard moving testimonials from high school and college students, as well as CIS Student Support Managers and Mental Health Specialists. This brought a personal touch to the gala festivities.
Guests were served a delicious meal of braised short ribs and grilled shrimp. After the fun ‘Eat Me’ dessert, the party moved to the dance floor to enjoy the music of the popular Houston-based band Klockwork.
Funds raised from the CIS Gala will support the CIS mission to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Currently serving 163 campuses across Greater Houston, CIS places at least one full-time CIS Student Support Specialist on each partner campus to deliver comprehensive direct services including counseling, academic support and health and human services.
WHEN: Thursday, April 4th
WHERE: The Post Oak Hotel
CO-CHAIRS: Lauren and John Brollier + Cassie and John Milam
HONORARY CO-CHAIRS: Kirby and Scott McCool + Judy and Charles Tate
PHOTOS: Dave Rossman