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About the Event
On Friday evening, June 18, 2004, the Gay and Lesbian Fund hosted Where the Wild Things Are, a Benefit for Kids, at the Dallas World Aquarium. Where the Wild Things Are raised over $100,000 in individual donations, corporate donations and silent auction proceeds for the beneficiaries of the event: Dallas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and the Dallas Children’s Theater. In exchange for the gifts, both beneficiaries will provide permanent naming recognition for the Gay and Lesbian Fund in locations to be determined at the beneficiaries’ respective facilities.
Anthony Clark, comedian and star or the CBS prime time series “Yes, Dear” was the keynote speaker for the event. The Honorable Laura Miller, Mayor of Dallas, was the honorary Chair of the event and former Governor of Texas, Ann Richards, made a special videotaped address in lieu of a personal appearance. Local personality Larry Weinstein emceed the live auction portion of the event, which featured a first class trip for two to Los Angeles to attend a live taping of the hit TV series Will & Grace -- including dinner with the cast, a men’s T-57 Mark watch from corporate sponsor Tiffany & Co., a first class weekend for two to Las Vegas with accommodations at Caesar’s, and a DVD equipment and movie package from corporate sponsor Blockbuster.
400 guests of the event enjoyed delicious hors-d'oeurvres provided by Darryl’s by Design and wine and beer donated by Caven Enterprises. Many local and national merchants, artists and individuals donated items for a large silent auction. Costs of the event were covered by generous gifts from the event's corporate sponsors and underwriters.
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CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a national organization whose mission is to speak for the best interests of abused and neglected children who are involved in the juvenile courts.
Their programs promote and support quality volunteer advocacy to help assure each child a safe, permanent, nurturing home.
More than three million children are reported abused or neglected each year in the United States. 600,000 of these children are in foster care because they cannot safely live with their families.
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers are powerful, caring advocates for more than 280,000 abused and neglected children. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to champion the best interests of these children so that they have a chance to thrive.
Dallas CASA is a charter member of the National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association and an active member of Texas CASA. Dallas CASA has been in operation since 1979. There are 24 full-time CASA employees who support more than 180 volunteers.
The Dallas Children’s Theater is one of the leading professional family theaters in the nation, serving up to 245,000 kids and their families through its 10 main stage productions, national touring company, and education and outreach programming.
Since 1984, this award-winning theater has existed to create professional theater for a multi-generational audience and to develop the minds and ideals of children inspiring them to rewarding and productive lives.
40% of DCT’s budget is dedicated to educational programming and outreach activities,. More than 75,000 students and teachers incorporate DCT programs into their curriculi.
DCT is the only major organization in Dallas focusing on youth and family theater. They are now located in the Rosewood Center for Family Arts at 5938 Skillman. |