On Aug. 6, a fabulous party took place at the Dumas Bay Centre.
Under the enthusiastic leadership of chairwoman Kelsey Kovach, and with the help of over 100 volunteers, event sponsors and community supporters, FUSION hosted its 15th annual art benefit, “A Gatsby Soiree.” Tom Pierson, CEO of the Federal Way Chamber of Commerce, presided over the evening’s festivities as master of ceremonies.
Approximately 750 guests savored spectacular culinary delights created by Metropolitan Market, and sipped wine donated by Barefoot Winery, while perusing original and creative works of art by 48 local artists featured in the Art Walk.
Silent and live auctions offered numerous items including a hot air balloon ride, a fabulous chocolate pearl necklace and earrings donated by Jeffrey Jewelers, a cruise on Holland America, a scooter donated by the Milton Tavern, ski trips and vacation packages.
Jazz musicians, Charleston and swing dancers, and 1920s theme music entertained guests while Poverty Bay Coffee Company provided refreshing espresso drinks throughout the evening.
The net proceeds from this year’s event were approximately $105,000! These funds will be invested in our transitional housing and support services for families in the Federal Way and NE Tacoma communities.
FUSION (Friends United to Shelter the Indigent, Oppressed, and Needy) currently maintains and operates nine fully-furnished housing units and contracts case management services through the South King County YWCA.
FUSION will acquire a tenth housing unit this month and has agreed to merge with the Joseph Foundation, which operates four transitional homes in NE Tacoma. The “fusion” of community efforts has enabled our volunteer-based, non-profit organization to grow and provide for the needs of families in transition as they work toward self-sufficiency.
We would like to give special recognition to the Dash Point Metropolitan Market for generously donating all the catering costs valued at over $10,000.
Major sponsors include: Jeff and Leanne Stock, Pete von Reichbauer and the Metropolitan King County Council, Prudential Northwest Realty, HomeStreet Bank, Boeing, Master Builders Association, Women’s Club of Federal Way, Windermere Foundation, St. Francis Hospital, Smith Barney, the City of Federal Way and Puget Sound Energy.
Many other businesses, private donors, churches, service organizations and volunteers have contributed financially and with in-kind donations, for which we are extremely grateful.
Our local community newspaper, the Federal Way Mirror, promoted FUSION with several featured articles before and after the event. The Mirror’s generous support helped us raise attendance at the event as well as financial contributions and community awareness for our mission.
On behalf of the FUSION board of directors, I want to thank you for your continued support. By working together, we are able to empower families, giving them hope and enabling them to realize their dreams of a stable and secure future.
Federal Way resident Peggy LaPorte is founder of FUSION. Visit www.fusionfederalway.org or call Judy Free at (253) 838-0368 to learn more about FUSION.
