West Chester Charity Ball raises over $145,000

WEST CHESTER >> With 270 Chester County community stakeholders registered, Friends Association for the Care & Protection of Children proudly hosted a successful 28th West Chester Charity Ball raising over $145,000 in support of its three programs. The event took place Dec. 3, 2016 at the West Chester Country Club.

“We are so pleased with the success of another West Chester Charity Ball, benefiting the Emergency Family Shelter, Homeless Prevention Program and Outreach to Homeless Families Program, “said Catherine Friedman, committee chair and Friends Association executive director. “We are grateful to the community for supporting this important event which helps to support the families we serve. It is so great to see guests reinforcing our work through their generosity. With everyone’s help, we were able to raise crucial funds for our three programs.”

The evening included entertainment, featuring celebrity emcee Andie Summers of 92.5 XTU, and live and silent auctions. Guests enjoyed a delectable dinner and festive cocktails while dancing to The Midnight Hour Band.

In addition to entertainment, Friends Association honored West Chester’s Ivan and Lisa Kaplan with the 2016 Friend of the Community Award. The Kaplan’s, owners of Kaplan’s Fine Jewelry, have been leaders and philanthropists serving the West Chester community for more than 40 years.

Friends Association promotes the independence of families with children by providing shelter, programs and services that prevent and end homelessness in Chester County. In 2016, Friends Association saved over 124 families and 247 children from homelessness.

Enjoying the evening are (from left)Kim Alexis of New York City, Maureen McBride, board president, and Leslie Lavender, board member, both of Berwyn.

Glenda Brion, Rose Marinelli, and Valerie Jester, Committee members and West Chester residents, get together at the party.

John Lilley, Kristen Mitchell, Chaz Mitchell and Bob Lohrman, all of West Chester, attend the fundraiser.

Lisa and Ivan Kaplan, 2016 Friend of the Community Award Winners, of West Chester, speak to the guests.

Melanie Chadwick Smith and Roy Smith of West Chester enjoy the event.