Online fundraising
4 virtual fundraising events to click and join this month in Dallas-Fort Worth
The coronavirus pandemic wiped out an entire spring schedule of fundraisers for Dallas-Fort Worth charities. As area organizations grapple with how to raise crucial funds to keep their services operational, more are shifting their efforts online.
These local nonprofits are holding virtual fundraising events in June. They range from a tour of historic homes to an online auction that culminates in a special appearance by a beloved Dallas Cowboys champion.
American Heart Association Côtes du Coeur, June 4
The American Heart Association's big annual gala and wine auction has raised more than $42 million in its 28-year history. This year's in-person fundraiser got canceled, an especially tough blow as the event's founder, Dr. Bob Hillert, just passed away this spring. But Côtes du Coeur has been reimagined as a virtual celebration for its patrons.
On Thursday, June 4, sponsors and supporters of the event will join together virtually to hear from AHA CEO Nancy Brown on the impact contributions have on the organization's fight against heart disease and stroke. They'll also hear from Dr. Mitchell Elkind, AHA board president-elect, and Steve Grimshaw, AHA division chairman.
The event is designed as a virtual thank-you to Côtes du Coeur supporters, but anyone may join or donate. The celebration begins at 4 pm. To "attend," visit the website.
Cook Children's and Child Study Center Party on the Patio, June 4
The beloved Fort Worth fundraiser that is usually held on the sprawling patio of Joe T. Garcia's restaurant is coming to attendees' own front porches this time.
"Guests" can pick up Joe T's food to-go — there'll be VIP curbside pickup at the restaurant for ticketholders, and table sponsors will have their meals delivered directly to their doors. Bids for a silent and big-board auction, as well as donations, can be made through mobile devices. And at 7:30 pm, a Facebook Live event will take place on the Cook Children's Health Foundation page. Attendees are then encouraged to share their photos on social media using #PartyOnMyPatioCSC.
Proceeds from the event provide treatment to families and children struggling with complex developmental and behavioral disorders. For more information and to purchase tickets ($150), visit the event website.
Rainbow Days Pot of Gold Virtual Auction and Event, June 16-25
The 23rd annual Pot of Gold Luncheon benefiting Rainbow Days was canceled and relaunched as the Dallas nonprofit's first-ever virtual fundraising event. A silent auction will open online on June 16, giving supporters 10 days to view and bid on items. The auction bidding will close June 25, the day the virtual event takes place.
The online experience, streamed through Rainbow Days’ social media pages at 12 pm June 25, will include an inspiring keynote address by former Dallas Cowboy Darren Woodson. Woodson, a three-time Super Bowl champion, has mentored kids through Rainbow Days’ summer camps and events.
There is no charge to attend the virtual event, but donations are encouraged. Find out more and join the event here. Rainbow Days hopes to raise $50,000 for its programs for at-risk youth. In the wake of COVID-19, the nonprofit has doubled its food delivery services to low-income families residing in extended-stay motels through its “Project Hope” food program.
Fairmount Virtual Tour of Historic Homes, June 20-21
The Fairmount Historic District in Fort Worth will hold its 38th annual Tour of Historic Homes as a virtual event this year. And instead of being around Mother's Day, it will take place on Father's Day weekend. It will feature five beautiful residences, as well as a two bungalows undergoing renovation and Southside Preservation Hall.
In lieu of ticket sales, the tour will be provided for free, but donations are requested. "Home tour is our largest fundraiser to keep all of our fun events going," the neighborhood organization says. "As a nonprofit, this is our main source of revenue."
The video-based tour will launch at 12 pm on the Saturday, June 20 on the event website and Facebook page. Preview the homes and follow along for updates there, as well.
Ice skaters showed off their moves in the "Central Park" rink.Photo by Ashley Gongora
The Kilgore Rangerettes channeled the Radio City Rockettes.Photo by Ashley Gongora
Dessert included a cake that looked like a blue Tiffany box.Photo by Michael Merry