H.E.R.O.E.S Gala
The H.E.R.O.E.S Gala is an annual event, hosted by the founder and director of the organization, to raise money for their programs. H.E.R.O.E.S serves all people with different abilities from birth through adulthood. They strive to support all families through connections to resources as well as facilitating life-long learning and long-term successes. They accomplish these goals by teaching the skills that are necessary for all individuals to become contributing members of society.
The gala is a night to dress up, socialize, donate and show support for all of the hard work done by the staff at H.E.R.O.E.S. Held at the Marriott in Plano, TX, this event was exactly what the name implies – a HEROES themed night of fun! After entering through the comic-colored balloon arch, we were greeted with smiles and fun music. Table after table was lined with items for a silent auction, with a cityscape silhouette and superhero figures as the background décor. They even had a photo booth with tons of fun superhero themed props where you could snag a complimentary group photo.
The real treat began during dinner. As hundreds dined at their sponsored tables, students from HEROES Academy stood in front of the large crowd and gave their testimonies. During his speech, one of the young men brought the crowd to tears as he said, “At HEROES we learn that we have purpose.” One by one, these amazing young adults stood and told us about how much they enjoy meeting their friends at HEROES for yoga class, Summer Camp and delivering Meals on Wheels. One young lady spoke about her appreciation of one of her teachers at the HEROES Academy that helped her prepare for job interviews – she is now an assistant teacher in the two year old room at a local daycare.
Every student spoke about a feeling of acceptance and how everyone is important here. One of the board members took the mic and explained that what started with two people in a hallway, is now five hundred people in a ballroom on this night. The director of HEROES said it best, “I dreamed that one day there would be a place so special, that those kids couldn’t wait to go back the next day. These kids that God created in His perfect plan.” He went on to say how these special children have taught them so much about awareness, inclusion and joy. To hear the testimonials and get the chance to meet some of the children from HEROES was something so special, it is hard to find the right words. We would like to thank Erin Mathers, Business Development Associate, Eric McInnis, Recruiting Manager and Natalie Garrison, Social Media Manager for attending and representing Angels of Care Pediatric Home Health.
To learn more, visit www.heroesdfw.org
