On Saturday, October 21st, Snoqualmie Valley non-profit Encompass took guests to a fun night in Paris – and without even having to leave the Eastside – during its annual fundraiser that supports critical programs.
The 2017 Encompass Autumn Gala raised almost half a million dollars. This was the most raised in Encompass history and will support their mission to partner with families to build healthy foundations for children.
More than 300 guests came out to the Hyatt Regency Bellevue to support the organization that has provided much-needed programs to children and families in the Snoqualmie Valley for over 50 years. Local radio personality Shellie Hart led the festivities as the Master of Ceremonies, encouraging guests to bid on silent and live auctions items, raffle, and wine wall.
The family speakers were Dana and Dan Ahner, a local couple who went through the Encompass Birth to Three Early Intervention program with all three of their children. The Ahners offered a moving account of their family’s story of resilience in the face of challenging circumstances and how Encompass helped them find a way through:
“…Dealing with unknown or unexpected circumstances as a parent can feel like you are constantly treading water, just trying to stay afloat. When we were drowning, Encompass was the one who pulled us from that water. Encompass helped us give all three of our kids their best chance at life, and because of that, Encompass will always be part of our family … When I think of the many families who haven’t even begun their unexpected journeys, it gives me comfort to know they will have Encompass to turn to.”
Twenty-seven corporate event sponsors, including Brown & Sterling Attorneys at Law and Nintendo, led the way in raising this record amount for Encompass, which will directly support the pediatric therapy, early learning, and family enrichment services that Encompass offers throughout the year.
