United Way of the Desert to have 27th Annual VIP Gala

Message from United Way of the Desert:

United Way of the Desert is proud to announce Mr. Harold Matzner as event underwriter of the upcoming 27th Annual VIP Gala, PARIS EN ROUGE. The event will be held on Friday, May 12th, 2017 at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage for the fourth consecutive year. Cocktail reception begins at 6:00pm.

 The annual gala has been a success for many years and continues to grow. Last year’s event raised more than $150,000 benefiting the United Way of the Desert’s Community Impact Fund, which serves the organization’s mission to break the cycle of poverty in the Coachella Valley and foster a healthy and vibrant community, built on opportunities for everyone.

United Way Board President & Gala Chair, Lynne Stephenson, said “United Way of the Desert is honored to announce the support of a brand new donor, the valley’s most prominent and beloved philanthropist, Mr. Harold Matzner. We are grateful to Mr. Matzner, who is underwriting the May 12th gala at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. The annual event, celebrating its 27th anniversary, has been attracting increased recognition in recent years thanks to a dedicated team who make it fresh, fun and different every time! We are also proud that the money we RAISE in the valley, STAYS in the valley, supporting LOCAL programs in Health, Education and Financial Stability.”

“Year after year, we see tremendous generosity that is distinctive of our community here in the Valley. Our commitment to philanthropy is like none other and United Way’s role of convening stakeholders to support local programs is a direct reflection of the giving spirit,” added Kristal Granados, United Way of the Desert’s Executive Director. “Thousands of individuals support our workplace campaign to address the needs of our residents. The Gala is a time to reaffirm the power of our collective impact.”

“Planning the gala is always an exciting time of year,” added Eevet Edens, United Way Marketing & Events Manager. “The event is possible thanks to a dedicated volunteer committee, Gala Chair, Lynne Stephenson, Co-Chair, Jeff Hocker of Hocker Productions, and Communications Chair Scott Kiner of Kiner Communications, who devote much of their time and talent to ensure a successful evening.”

 Following in the tradition of the past three years, the evening promises to be spectacular. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception with signature Rouge cocktails, an exquisite, French-inspired dinner and fine wine. The always incredible and spectacular Sensation Showband will return this year with live music, dancing and special surprises.

Tables of ten or individual tickets can be purchased at www.unitedwayofthedesert.org or by calling 760-323-2731 (ext. 23). Tickets sell out quickly, be sure to reserve your seats today. In addition to Mr. Harold Matzner, event sponsors include El Paseo Jewelers, and longtime media supporters of the United Way of the Desert gala include: The Desert Sun, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Kiner Communications, Hocker Productions, KMIR TV and Univision. Sponsorship opportunities and VIP tables still available.

For more information about the United Way of the Desert and the 27th Annual Gala, Paris En Rouge, please visit www.unitedwayofthedesert.org or contact Eevet Edens, Marketing & Events Manager at 760-323-2731 (ext. 25) or email [email protected].

ABOUT: United Way of the Desert has been working to meet the needs of local residents for over 70 years. Through the compassion of community partners, we work to break the cycle of poverty in the Coachella Valley. Our focus in the areas of Education, Financial Stability and Health translates to lasting change and tangible Community Impact in the lives of thousands of residents in need. We help feed our hungry and homeless population, offer educational opportunities to underserved children, support individuals and families as they work towards financial stability, and promote health and wellness for all. Our vision is to foster a healthy and vibrant Coachella Valley, built on opportunities for everyone.

 Please visit our Facebook Page to stay up to date on the 27th Annual Gala and other programs & events. www.Facebook.com/UnitedWayoftheDesert