Houston’s finest gather to kick off Catholic Charities Spirit of Charity Gala

HOUSTON (December 4, 2015) — In one of the first social affairs of the Christmas season, some of Houston’s most prominent philanthropists were already planning ahead for the May 6, 2016 Spirit of Charity Gala, benefiting the programs of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston Houston.

They met Thursday evening, Dec. 3, at the River Oaks home of Deana and Larry Blackburn to kick off fundraising for the Gala. The evening’s program teased the spring Gala’s venue with a video sneak-peek, leaving guests guessing as to where it would be. The video’s hint: indoor and outdoor in a large urban space.

The Gala, which is themed the “Grand Bazaar,” will honor the David Harvey family, whose construction firm built many Houston landmarks, including The Galleria and Transco Tower.

“When we thought of the David Harveys and their 11 grown children, we thought of their tireless commitment not only to the community, but to active parish life. When we thought of parish life, we thought of family-oriented church socials or ‘bazaars.’ We wanted to re-create the bazaar atmosphere in honor of them, but on a much grander scale.” said Gala co-chair Carol Beck. “Hence, a ‘Grand Bazaar.’”

Cynthia N. Colbert, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of Galveston-Houston, acknowledged the work that Beck and co-chairs Jo Brueggeman and Alicia Freysinger have put into the event-planning. “I don’t have to tell you how much work that is, how much dedication it takes – how much passion – is put into making the Gala a success. The Gala is in May, and while it might seem like a long way off, it’s not. There is much work to be done.”

Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston offered a special Advent blessing to guests.