Saratoga Bridges is over half a century old, having offered services and programs to the developmentally disabled since 1953. Today its mission is bigger than ever as it serves over 800 individuals and their families.
Keeping that commitment took $26 million in 2010 alone, an amount that is not fully made up through Medicaid, which means Bridges looks to the community for support. To keep its services and programs running, the organization embraces fun for an evening holding an annual gala.
“The fundraisers are a great way to get the community involved and individuals that would like to give but would also love a great party as well,” said Development and Foundation Coordinator for Saratoga Bridges Heather Varney.
This year’s festivities will be a continuation of last year’s white party, and will take place on Saturday, July 21, at Fasig Tipton located at 153 George Street, Saratoga Springs from 7 to 11 p.m. A silent auction and a live auction will also be part of the evening. Tickets are $150 per person or $100 for those under 35.
“It is our largest fundraiser so for us it’s very important to raise as much money as possible for our programs and services – so we’re hoping for a little more (this year). Even a small increase would be a great increase.…. Our sponsorship has been tremendous,” said Varney.
The event has been around for more than 20 years, but the white theme is now in its second year.
“People really seemed to enjoy it. They liked the idea of dressing in all white, and not everyone did. And that’s great too because it’s nice to have a little color mixed in. It’s not mandatory,” said Varney.
Last year’s event drew a record attendance of nearly 500 guests and raised approximately $84,000. Sponsors for this year’s gala include The Adirondack Trust Company and CDPHP.
“We’ve surpassed our (sponsorship) goal, now it’s about getting the guests in,” Varney said.
Auction items include a one-year family membership to the Saratoga Regional YMCA, tickets to a New York Giants game with overnight accommodations, a home project makeover valued at $10,000 donated by Bonacio Construction and “Buckets and Beers” for 20 people supplied by Hattie’s Restaurant.
“They’ll (Hattie’s) actually come to your house and cater an event,” said Varney.
“I loved the white party last year and agreed to co-chair it with my good friend Julie Bonacio so we could help Bridges brand the party,” said event co-chair Beth Alexander of Hattie’s Restaurant. “Everyone looked so beautiful in their white clothes at the gorgeous setting at Fasig Tipton. In one short year it has become a favorite fundraiser in the Saratoga summer season. We look forward to a great night.”
Alexander has been on the gala’s committee for several years and said she always enjoys working with everyone at Bridges.
“One of the most interesting aspects of the organization is their arts program … it varies from visual arts to dance and choir,” she said.
The arts program through Creative Endeavors in Ballston Spa actually designed the logo for the event, which depicts Lady Godiva. It appears on the invitations and other promotional materials.
“They did it as a collaborative piece and will auction off the original at our event,” said Varney.
The gala supports everything from day habilitation and family support services to transportation and employment services.
“We were founded basically to make sure that those programs and services continue for the 800 individuals we serve, despite any cuts. … We’ve had quite the cut (in Medicaid) taken in the last couple of years, and it’s not looking great for 2012,” said Varney.
Even so, Bridges has not had to eliminate any programs and services.
The online auction can be viewed at www.biddingforgood.com/saratogabridges. To make reservations to the gala by July13, visit www.saratogabridges.org
