PRESCOTT – The 1970s were alive and dancing at the Prescott Resort on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, with the return of the Annual Gala of Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters (YBBBS).
Over 310 community members joined the organization to celebrate 50 years of providing meaningful mentoring matches to area youth.
“I would like to thank all of our stakeholders who attended our Annual Gala, our Wall of Honor unveiling, and our After Party at the Elks Theater,” shared YBBBS Executive Director Erin Mabery. “It really echoes how incredible our communities really are and validates that our hard work is not only needed, but supported throughout Yavapai County.”
During the event, Mabery announced an expansion of service for youth up to age 24 of the evidence-based mentoring mission of the agency.
“The Annual Gala provides such a valuable opportunity to share our impact and vision for the future with the community. It was inspiring to see so many community members in attendance after a two-year absence come together for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sister’s mission,” said Marlo Dykeman, YBBBS Donor Relations Director.
Dykeman also shared that over $408,000 was raised during the event, including matching gifts, individual donations, auction proceeds and sponsorships.
Big and Little Matches shared their stories during the program, with a special surprise from Yavapai College. YC President Lisa Rhine presented Little Brother Chase Brown with a welding scholarship to continue his education. This underlined the promise of the agency and its partners to invest in the future of the county’s young people.
To kick off the evening, YBBBS held a dedication of the Wall of Honor at the resort, which features the agency’s donors.
The gala featured silent and live auctions, as well as the music of the local band Funk Frequency. Many guests got into the 1970s theme by donning their disco finery and showing off their dance moves.
Hometown Radio President Sanford Cohen performed as emcee and auctioneer.
Celebrations continued for over 70 attendees at the Elks Theater during the After-Party, which featured a photo booth, food, music and games.
Event photos from Marchetti Photography are available to view here.
