The Giving Exchange Gala 2023: A Decade of Love, Growth, and Impact

On a dazzling evening that shimmered with gratitude and glowed with the spirit of giving, The Giving Exchange (TGE) hosted its Gala Fundraiser 2023 at the Brower Center in Berkeley, CA, on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Wrapping up a milestone year, TGE marked a decade of transformative work, and the gala was a radiant celebration of love, growth, and impactful achievements.

The Stars of the Evening

Three esteemed guests of honor, Reah and Francis Nderitu, and Lilian Biira, graced the stage, each representing a unique facet of TGE's journey.

Growth: Reah and Francis Nderitu of Morning Star Children's Home engaged in a heartfelt conversation with TGE's founder, Rod Mickels, reflecting on the incredible decade that shaped their partnership and the organization's founding story.

Impact: Lilian Biira, Director of Inspire Girls Foundation in Uganda, was interviewed by TGE's Director of Operations, Reanna, shedding light on the profound impact TGE has had on young entrepreneurs.

Program Highlights

The evening unfolded with a Welcome Reception starting at 5:30 p.m., featuring delectable hors d'oeuvres by Cafe Colucci, a sponsored bar, a merchandise table, a Wishing Tree Art Installation, and a silent auction. Guests had the opportunity to purchase premium drawing tokens for a chance to win a coveted prize. The main program, held in the theater, ran from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., with presenters on stage, a live auction, of course, the fund-a-need. The night concluded with a champagne toast, echoing the sentiments of a decade well-celebrated.

The theme for the night encapsulated the essence of the gala: "The Giving Exchange Gala 2024: A Decade of Love, Growth, and Impact." It served as a poignant reminder of the organization's journey, the love shared by its supporters, the growth experienced, and the enduring impact etched into the fabric of communities touched by TGE.

Love: Executive Director, Ming Richie, and Director of Operations, Reanna Placide, opened the event celebrating and thanking all the individuals who make the work possible.

The Numbers

Ninety-five enthusiastic supporters gathered in person at the Brower Center in Berkeley, CA, while an additional 35 supporters joined virtually from various corners of the globe. Under the expert guidance of auctioneer Emily Quinn, hosting the event for the fourth year in a row, the night's fundraising efforts soared to new heights. A staggering $250,000 was raised, a testament to the unwavering dedication of TGE's supporters. Notably, The Giving Exchange's commitment to transparency and impact was emphasized: all operational costs are covered by angel donors, ensuring that 100% of donations directly fuel TGE's life-changing projects.


Sponsors, Auction Donors and Volunteers

  • Scott & Lori Smith

    Laura & Joe Cervelli

    Paul Salinger

    Drew & Susan Hagen

    Rod Mickels

  • Amy Alanes

    Bett Mickels & John Tokar

    Kristen Radakovich

    Jenkins Street

    Jill Tanner

    Michael Berta

    Raymond James via Bruce Cacho-Negrete and Scott Weingarden

    Suzanne Geoffrion

    Terri & Bill Wygal

  • Christopher Revetria

    Maddie & Jamis Spalding

    Calicraft Brewing Co.

  • The Edgar Family

    Bruce and Lise Cacho-Negrete

    Altabella Italian Villas

    The Hagen Family

    Rod Mickels

    Bill’s Ace Hardware

    Crystal Mandich

    Stepladder Ranch & Creamery

    Contra Costa County Fire Station 81

    Marietta Wines

    April Schirmer

    High Camp Supply

    Abbey Fan

    Live Nation

  • Meera O’Farrell

    Camila Villa

    Sophia Beers

    Ren Thompson

    Joann Liang

    Suzanne Geoffrion

    Tess Grebe

    Will Grebe

    Avery Greenwood

    William Devine

    Terri Wygal

    Nicole Ersaro

    Lacee Musgrove

    Taylor Radke

    Victoria Grover

Conclusion

As the curtains fell on this night to remember, it left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended. The Giving Exchange's Gala 2024 was more than an event; it was a collective embrace of a decade's worth of accomplishments, a testament to the power of unity, and a promise for more years of love, growth, and impact to come.


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The Giving Exchange's Trip to Kenya 2023: Two Weeks of Impact and Inspiration