By Shelby Deering | Photo courtesy Open Arms Free Clinic
While wintertime might be a slow social season in some places, that’s certainly not the case in Lake Geneva, with a variety of local nonprofit organizations hosting charity events that offer an exciting night out to benefit community programming. Here are three options for a night out while giving back.
Open Arms Free Clinic Birthday Gala
Dec. 2, 5-9 p.m., at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa
Furthering the goal of providing equitable access to healthcare for those most vulnerable in Walworth County, this 501(c)3 charitable organization has helped more than 5,000 patients to date, and its Birthday Gala fundraiser is one event that keeps its generosity flowing. This year’s event will be held in conjunction with a momentous anniversary in the organization’s history: exactly 10 years before the gala, on Dec. 2, 2012, the team treated their first patient in the newly established clinic. Executive Director Sara Nichols says the Birthday Gala will be a “Cirque de Soleil-inspired event” that will include aerial dancers, a champagne reception and a silent auction, among other entertainment. Tickets to the event can be purchased online (https://openarmsfreeclinic.org/events) or in person at the Open Arms Free Clinic in Elkhorn.
Geneva Lake Conservancy’s Holly Ball
Dec. 3, 5-11 p.m. at Big Foot Country Club
Fulfilling a mission to protect the land and lakes of Walworth County, over the past 45 years the Geneva Lake Conservancy has protected nearly 3,000 acres of open land, and opened five public nature preserves, primarily through fundraising and donations. “The Holly Ball is the Geneva Lake Conservancy’s biggest fundraiser of the year,” explains Executive Director Karen Yancey. The annual event includes a popular silent auction, which often features high-value, notable items and experiences. “We also present a video about our Conservation Stewardship Award winners, and each year, we honor two people for their contributions to conservation in Walworth County,” Yancey continues. The event is limited to 250 attendees by invitation only, sent to members of the organization. To join the Geneva Lake Conservancy, visit genevalakeconservancy.org.
Geneva Lakes Family YMCA Annual Auction
Feb. 18 at Grand Geneva Resort
Every year, the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA hosts one major fundraiser: the Annual Auction. Funds raised at the event support their Financial Assistance and Outreach programs for families and individuals who can’t afford memberships or program fees. “No one will ever be denied access to the YMCA due to financial hardship,” explains Ann Fulmer, senior director of marketing and development for the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA. This will be the 37th year the organization will hold its popular auction event. This year’s theme is “Heroes vs. Villains,” with 450 guests dressing the part, according to Associate Executive Director Sherri Baker. Guests will enjoy an open bar, plated dinner, and silent and live auction. Tickets go on sale on December 1, and can be purchased online at genevalakesymca.org/auction or by calling the YMCA at (262) 248-6211.
