The Gary-based YWCA of Northwest Indiana is hosting its annual Circle of Friends Gala Oct. 24.
“The Circle of Friends Gala is premier occasion that the community always looks forward to,” said Caren Jones, YWCA of NWI executive director, in a press release.
Gala organizers will recognize individuals who have championed the YWCA of NWI throughout the year. The award recipients include:
- Chareice White, CEO of ECIER Foundation
- Era Twyman, former executive director of the Gary Literacy Coalition
- Ida Gillis, former director of affirmative action at Indiana University Northwest
- Curtis Whittaker, CEO of Whittaker & Company, PLLC
Organizers will also present the inaugural Earline Rogers Trailblazer Award in honor of Earline Rogers, the late former state senator and YWCA board member emerita. The award will be presented to Cynthia Powers, former YWCA board president.
Funds raised from the Circle of Friends Gala will support programming and improvements to the YWCA facility.
“It's a chance for us to celebrate the mission of the YWCA and raise funds that ensure programming and initiatives are in place for the communities we serve,” Jones said.
The gala will start at 6 p.m. October 24. It will take place at the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary. The event will feature dinner, dancing, raffles, live music by DJ N 4 Red and networking. Samantha Chatman of ABC 7 Chicago will serve as the host. Learn more about the gala here.
The YWCA of Northwest Indiana provides health, education, social, and recreation programs. The nonprofit community service organization serves children, adolescents, adults and the elderly. The YWCA has served the Gary area for over 100 years.
