• Home
  • popular
  • Events
  • Submit New Event
  • Subscribe
  • About
  • News
  • Restaurants + Bars
  • City Life
  • Entertainment
  • Travel
  • Real Estate
  • Arts
  • Society
  • Home + Design
  • Fashion + Beauty
  • Innovation
  • Sports
  • Charity Guide
  • children
  • education
  • health
  • veterans
  • SOCIAL SERVICES
  • ARTS + CULTURE
  • animals
  • lgbtq
  • New Charity
  • Series
  • Delivery Limited
  • DTX Giveaway 2012
  • DTX Ski Magic
  • dtx woodford reserve manhattans
  • Your Home in the Sky
  • DTX Best of 2013
  • DTX Trailblazers
  • Tastemakers Dallas 2017
  • Healthy Perspectives
  • Neighborhood Eats 2015
  • The Art of Making Whiskey
  • DTX International Film Festival
  • DTX Tatum Brown
  • Tastemaker Awards 2016 Dallas
  • DTX McCurley 2014
  • DTX Cars in Lifestyle
  • DTX Beyond presents Party Perfect
  • DTX Texas Health Resources
  • DART 2018
  • Alexan Central
  • State Fair 2018
  • Formula 1 Giveaway
  • Zatar
  • CityLine
  • Vision Veritas
  • Okay to Say
  • Hearts on the Trinity
  • DFW Auto Show 2015
  • Northpark 50
  • Anteks Curated
  • Red Bull Cliff Diving
  • Maggie Louise Confections Dallas
  • Gaia
  • Red Bull Global Rally Cross
  • NorthPark Holiday 2015
  • Ethan's View Dallas
  • DTX City Centre 2013
  • Galleria Dallas
  • Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty Luxury Homes in Dallas Texas
  • DTX Island Time
  • Simpson Property Group SkyHouse
  • DIFFA
  • Lotus Shop
  • Holiday Pop Up Shop Dallas
  • Clothes Circuit
  • DTX Tastemakers 2014
  • Elite Dental
  • Elan City Lights
  • Dallas Charity Guide
  • DTX Music Scene 2013
  • One Arts Party at the Plaza
  • J.R. Ewing
  • AMLI Design District Vibrant Living
  • Crest at Oak Park
  • Braun Enterprises Dallas
  • NorthPark
  • Victory Park
  • DTX Common Desk
  • DTX Osborne Advisors
  • DTX Comforts of Home 2012
  • DFW Showcase Tour of Homes
  • DTX Neighborhood Eats
  • DTX Comforts of Home 2013
  • DTX Auto Awards
  • Cottonwood Art Festival 2017
  • Nasher Store
  • Guardian of The Glenlivet
  • Zyn22
  • Dallas Rx
  • Yellow Rose Gala
  • Opendoor
  • DTX Sun and Ski
  • Crow Collection
  • DTX Tastes of the Season
  • Skye of Turtle Creek Dallas
  • Cottonwood Art Festival
  • DTX Charity Challenge
  • DTX Culture Motive
  • DTX Good Eats 2012
  • DTX_15Winks
  • St. Bernard Sports
  • Jose
  • DTX SMU 2014
  • DTX Up to Speed
  • st bernard
  • Ardan West Village
  • DTX New York Fashion Week spring 2016
  • Taste the Difference
  • Parktoberfest 2016
  • Bob's Steak and Chop House
  • DTX Smart Luxury
  • DTX Earth Day
  • DTX_Gaylord_Promoted_Series
  • IIDA Lavish
  • Huffhines Art Trails 2017
  • Red Bull Flying Bach Dallas
  • Y+A Real Estate
  • Beauty Basics
  • DTX Pet of the Week
  • Long Cove
  • Charity Challenge 2014
  • Legacy West
  • Wildflower
  • Stillwater Capital
  • Tulum
  • DTX Texas Traveler
  • Dallas DART
  • Soldiers' Angels
  • Alexan Riveredge
  • Ebby Halliday Realtors
  • Zephyr Gin
  • Sixty Five Hundred Scene
  • Christy Berry
  • Entertainment Destination
  • Dallas Art Fair 2015
  • St. Bernard Sports Duck Head
  • Jameson DTX
  • Alara Uptown Dallas
  • Cottonwood Art Festival fall 2017
  • DTX Tastemakers 2015
  • Cottonwood Arts Festival
  • The Taylor
  • Decks in the Park
  • Alexan Henderson
  • Gallery at Turtle Creek
  • Omni Hotel DTX
  • Red on the Runway
  • Whole Foods Dallas 2018
  • Artizone Essential Eats
  • Galleria Dallas Runway Revue
  • State Fair 2016 Promoted
  • Trigger's Toys Ultimate Cocktail Experience
  • Dean's Texas Cuisine
  • Real Weddings Dallas
  • Real Housewives of Dallas
  • Jan Barboglio
  • Wildflower Arts and Music Festival
  • Hearts for Hounds
  • Okay to Say Dallas
  • Indochino Dallas
  • Old Forester Dallas
  • Dallas Apartment Locators
  • Dallas Summer Musicals
  • PSW Real Estate Dallas
  • Paintzen
  • DTX Dave Perry-Miller
  • DTX Reliant
  • Get in the Spirit
  • Bachendorf's
  • Holiday Wonder
  • Village on the Parkway
  • City Lifestyle
  • opportunity knox villa-o restaurant
  • Nasher Summer Sale
  • Simpson Property Group
  • Holiday Gift Guide 2017 Dallas
  • Carlisle & Vine
  • DTX New Beginnings
  • Get in the Game
  • Red Bull Air Race
  • Dallas DanceFest
  • 2015 Dallas Stylemaker
  • Youth With Faces
  • Energy Ogre
  • DTX Renewable You
  • Galleria Dallas Decadence
  • Bella MD
  • Tractorbeam
  • Young Texans Against Cancer
  • Fresh Start Dallas
  • Dallas Farmers Market
  • Soldier's Angels Dallas
  • Shipt
  • Elite Dental
  • Texas Restaurant Association 2017
  • State Fair 2017
  • Scottish Rite
  • Brooklyn Brewery
  • DTX_Stylemakers
  • Alexan Crossings
  • Ascent Victory Park
  • Top Texans Under 30 Dallas
  • Discover Downtown Dallas
  • San Luis Resort Dallas
  • Greystar The Collection
  • FIG Finale
  • Greystar M Line Tower
  • Lincoln Motor Company
  • The Shelby
  • Jonathan Goldwater Events
  • Windrose Tower
  • Gift Guide 2016
  • State Fair of Texas 2016
  • Choctaw Dallas
  • TodayTix Dallas promoted
  • Whole Foods
  • Unbranded 2014
  • Frisco Square
  • Unbranded 2016
  • Circuit of the Americas 2018
  • The Katy
  • Snap Kitchen
  • Partners Card
  • Omni Hotels Dallas
  • Landmark on Lovers
  • Harwood Herd
  • Galveston.com Dallas
  • Holiday Happenings Dallas 2018
  • TenantBase
  • Cottonwood Art Festival 2018
  • Hawkins-Welwood Homes
  • The Inner Circle Dallas
  • Eating in Season Dallas
  • ATTPAC Behind the Curtain
  • TodayTix Dallas
  • The Alexan
  • Toyota Music Factory
  • Nosh Box Eatery
  • Wildflower 2018
  • Society Style Dallas 2018
  • Texas Scottish Rite Hospital 2018
  • 5 Mockingbird
  • 4110 Fairmount
  • Visit Taos
  • Allegro Addison
  • Dallas Tastemakers 2018
  • The Village apartments
  • City of Burleson Dallas

    2019 Dallas Datebook

    Pencil in the 13 must-attend charitable events of spring in Dallas

    Diana Oates
    Jan 23, 2019 | 10:36 am

    Spring society season has sprung in Dallas — even if the weather outside can't make up its mind. Whether you love the laid-back luxury of a philanthropic luncheon or prefer to rock a glitzy designer gown for an elegant evening affair, there are plenty of fabulous fetes to enjoy for good causes.

    The following 13 events will be the talk of the town long after they come to an end, thanks to their fabulous fashion, featured entertainment, and most importantly, the money they'll raise for the beloved beneficiaries. Grab some bubbly and open your datebook.

    The Birthday Party Project Turns 7, January 26
    To know "chief birthday enthusiast" Paige Chenault is to love her, and the same can be said about this soiree that brings out the inner child in all of its attendees. Passionate patrons of The Birthday Party Project come together to bring happiness to homeless kids by celebrating their birthdays. Guests at this year's signature fundraiser have been asked to dress up as their favorite movie character, and the celebration will happen at The Bomb Factory. They also will honor Suzanne Droese (and the DroesePR team) and Tess and Ian Kinsler for all the ways they’ve supported the nonprofit's mission. This wild party is both fun and fancy, and 100 percent of ticket sales and sponsorships go directly to throwing birthday parties at partner agencies.

    The UNICEF Gala Dallas, February 1
    This second annual star-studded event features a red carpet list a mile long. This year's gala, happening at the Ritz-Carlton, is shaping up to be the best one yet. Event chairs Moll Anderson and Jan Miller Rich once again have recruited TV personality Brooke Burke to emcee an evening that includes an opening performance by BeBe Winans. The fundraiser will honor country singer Brad Paisley and his wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley, as well as Jill and Jim Cochran for their support for UNICEF’s life-saving programs worldwide. And yes, Paisley is slated to perform an acoustic set. There will also be a royally swanky after party presented by Bullion and hosted by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.

    Saint Valentine's Day Luncheon and Fashion Show, February 7
    Dallas housing market maven Christy Berry takes the reins of this beloved luncheon, celebrating its 35th year of uniting North Texas in an effort to eradicate blood cancers through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This chic afternoon NorthPark's CenterPark Garden — with honorary chairs Melody and Rick Rogers and advisory chairs Nancy Gopez and Rozalyn Colombo — features a fabulous fashion show followed by a lavish lunch. This year’s theme, "Look of Love," allows attendees to reflect on previous years by honoring those who have fought and battled blood cancer.

    Dallas Go Red For Women Luncheon, February 22
    If a room full of thousands of women working together to erase heart disease and stroke with the American Heart Association doesn't get your blood pumping, then really, what will? This girl power-fueled fete, co-chaired by Katherine and Key Coker and Judy Hendrick, will take place at The Omni Dallas Hotel. There's a lot to love about this luncheon because they offer on-site health screenings, which is the kind of proactive philanthropy that every multi-tasking attendee can appreciate. Keynote speaker is Dr. Jennifer Ashton, the chief medical correspondent for ABC News: Good Morning America.

    House of DIFFA, March 16
    Taking place two months earlier than usual, this absolutely outrageous, avant-garde event is back at The Omni Dallas hotel with a "Futuro" theme that is meant to imagine a future with zero stigma, no deaths, and no new HIV/AIDS infections. This elaborate evening features the most thrilling fashion presentation of the society season (think Traffic LA, Forty Five Ten, and TenOverSix) and uses funds raised to provide crucial dollars to HIV/AIDS service organizations in North Texas through DIFFA. Bravo TV star Carson Kressley will serve as this year's celebrity auctioneer.

    MTV Re:Define, March 29
    One of America's most prominent and high profile philanthropic art auctions, this event raises funds for the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, which works toward an HIV-free world. This year's soiree will take place at The Statler — groovy, baby. Chaired by Sami Abboud and co-hosted by Joyce Goss and Kenny Goss, the fabulous party features a seated dinner in the grand ballroom and an art-focused auction. The night also will honor celebrated artist and longtime Re:Define supporter Marc Quinn.

    S/S19 Gala, April 5
    It was only a matter of time before Dallas Contemporary created a spring gala of its very own, and the time is now. This inaugural gala is chaired by Kristen Cole and Kaleta Blaffer Johnson and is slated to feature two exhibitions in conjunction with the event. And while the event will no doubt attract some big name out-of-towners (Ezra Petronio, Juergen Teller) word is that supermodel Kate Moss is also a confirmed guest. Which makes sense since the second exhibition showcases Mario Sorrenti's work that includes his collection of Moss throughout the years.

    Mad Hatter's Tea, April 11
    Sharla Bush and Terry Irby co-chair this year's luncheon, themed "The Golden Age of Hollywood," at benefiting The Women's Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The highly anticipated luncheon features champagne, hat judging by local celebrities, competitive auction, Jan Strimple-produced fashion show by Tootsies, and a delicious, al fresco lunch. Kristina Bush Whitcomb is the 2019 honorary chair. The organizers' Hollywood theme will no doubt bring out some of the biggest, most glamorous hats of them all.

    Chick Lit, April 12
    Bravo TV's Andy Cohen — the man behind The Real Housewives of Dallas — at the Hilton Anatole. Enough said. This beloved literary luncheon benefits Community Partners of Dallas and the important work that they do for the abused and neglected children served by Dallas County Child Protective Services. It is safe to say that in Cohen, co-chairs Leigh Anne Haugh and Amy Hegi will go above and beyond to give the women of Dallas their guiltiest reality-TV pleasure. On a serious note, Linda Perryman Evans and The Meadows Foundation will be presented the 2019 Partners for Children Award.

    Children's Cancer Fund Gala, April 26
    Dallas belle of the ball Kimberly Schlegel Whitman is the perfect person to chair this year's mega gala that benefits research and treatment programs in pediatric oncology at Children's Medical Center. Oh, and you might have heard of the honorary co-chairs? Troy Aikman and Roger Staubach. This "Evening in the Garden" is happening at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. It's always a philanthropic favorite because it is equal parts fancy and fun. The highlight of the evening is the fashion show, when pediatric cancer patients take center stage.

    Art Ball, April 27
    Themed "Form+Function," Art Ball co-chairs Lindsey Collins and Amanda Shufeldt are inviting guests to a "celebration of craftsmanship throughout the collection." This uber-exclusive gala makes it possible for the Dallas Museum of Art to offer free admission to more than 800,000 guests annually. And while the intricate details of the evening are still trickling in, attendees can expect a seated dinner, luxury live auction, and the most gorgeous gowns of the season. The after-party is also sure to feature someone you've heard of singing or spinning their way into the wee hours of the morning.

    Genesis Annual Luncheon, May 10
    This luncheon, chaired by Robyn and Don Conlon (and family), is known for its A-list speakers, and this year is no exception. Former NFL standout, actor, best-selling author, and activist Terry Crews is set to the take the stage of the Hilton Anatole. Crews, who survived a childhood of abuse, will provide words of encouragement and support in his inspirational keynote address. Proceeds from the 26th annual luncheon benefit Genesis Women's Shelter — an organization that provides safety, shelter, and support for women who have experienced domestic violence.

    Dallas Opera Gala, May 11
    A new format for the Dallas Opera Gala helps the city's social set — and opera lovers — wrap up the spring season with a beautiful, bold bow. Internationally acclaimed American tenors Michael Fabiano, Bryan Hymel, and Matthew Polenzani will perform with The Dallas Opera Orchestra under Italian guest conductor Riccardo Frizza inside the Winspear Opera House. Following the concert, attendees will enjoy dinner and drinks with the stars of the concert.

    Anne Stodghill, Kary Brittingham, and Kara Goss at MTV Re:Define 2018.

    Anne Stodghill, Kary Brittingham, Kara Goss
      
    Photo by WJNPHOTO
    Anne Stodghill, Kary Brittingham, and Kara Goss at MTV Re:Define 2018.
    luncheonscharity-guidegalasfundraiserscharity
    news/society
    series/dallas-charity-guide

    Hot to trot

    Equest Dallas patrons pony up record $700K at blue ribbon-worthy ball

    Stephanie Allmon Merry
    May 9, 2025 | 1:45 pm
    Equest Blue Ribbon Gala 2025
    Photo by Tamytha Cameron
    Honorary co-chairs David and Natalie Taylor, Auction chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand, and Gala co-chairs Kristin and James Hallam

    A sold-out crowd of 570 supporters stampeded into Gilley’s Dallas on April 25 for the 44th Annual Equest Blue Ribbon Gala. The Western-chic affair, always one of the most highly anticipated galas of spring, would have a record-breaking night.

    Co-chairsKristin and James Hallam and honorary chairs The Sam and Helga Feldman Foundation and Natalie and David Taylor welcomed patrons decked out in cowboy boots and hats to Gilley's, which had been transformed into a shimmering celebration of all things Equest by event designer Steve Kemble. A “disco saddle” centerpiece even hung from the ceiling.

    Emcee Calvert Collins-Bratton welcomed the crowed with a hearty "yee haw!" Equest founder Susan Schwartz presented the Founders Award to Carol Chamberlin, whose three decades of service as volunteer, donor, and barn manager have made her an Equest organization legend. The Citation Award went to Donna and Tim Weber and their daughter Katherine, an Equest client.

    New CEO Eric Lindh took the stage to underscore Equest’s mission to provide equine-assisted learning, therapies, and counseling (much of it free of charge) to children, adults, and veterans. He shared the nonprofit's bold vision for the future, focusing on the number “22,” a call to action inspired by the 22 percent of Dallas County residents living with a disability, the 22 veterans lost to suicide daily in the U.S., and the 22 percent of Americans living with mental illness, while less than half of those receive treatment.

    His pledge to expand services to first responders struck a chord with the crowd, as did the moving testimonials from Equest clients.

    Auction chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand urged the crowd to “Bid boldly. Bid big. Bid with heart,” and patrons did that in spades. Auctioneer Louis Murad encouraged bidders to raise paddles stridently, starting from initial $10,000 bids onward. Bidding got fast and furious live auction packages that included fabulous trips (with destinations such as France, Antigua, and Montana) and more. The most memorable moment came when a guest insisted Murad - ever the showman - auction off his own sparkling jacket. It fetched $2,000, a purchase by Tim Weber (who clearly loves a good statement piece).

    In total, the gala raised $700,000, the largest fundraising amount in Equest’s 44-year history. The Blue Ribbon Ball's proceeds go directly to equine-assisted therapies and other services provided by Equest; for more information, visit the organization's website.

    Equest Blue Ribbon Gala 2025
      

    Photo by Tamytha Cameron

    Honorary co-chairs David and Natalie Taylor, Auction chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand, and Gala co-chairs Kristin and James Hallam

    After a night of sipping, dining, and fundraising, patrons tried their luck at casino games and danced the night away to Jordan Kahn’s Manhattan Orchestra.

    Spotted in the crowd, enjoying the evening, were Donna Weitzman, Nancy Greenbach, Natalie Taylor, Therese Rourk, Anne Seanor, Courtney Conley, Maggie Spiegel, Tyler Bridges, Lea LaFortune, Lee and Paul Michaels, Ryan and Kelly Casey, Christina Eubanks, Megan Pharis, Julie Bagley, Laura Johnson, Parker and Katy Brooks, Sharon Lee Clark, Max Clark, Jordan Glasgow, Anna Gresham, Khaki Christopher, Jessie Dornak, Jeff Netzer, Lynn McBee, Sarah and Trey Pederson, Luis Araujo, Amy Green, Kayten Elder, Sila Grogan, Melissa Placet, Tayler Reiter, Danny and Tanya Rice, Tina and Michael Beasom, and hundreds more patrons and supporters.

    news/society
    series/dallas-charity-guide
    CULTUREMAP EMAILS ARE AWESOME
    Get Dallas intel delivered daily.
    Loading...