Hundreds of Echelon members flocked to Uptown for the second annual 30M Gala at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. This year, these savvy young professionals recruited a few Dallas philanthropic powerhouses to support their cause: Salvation Army.
Co-chairs Shelby and Travis Goff and Meredith and Griffin Perry worked alongside honorary chairs Laura Bush, Jenna Bush Hager, Barbara Bush, Gene Jones and Charlotte Jones Anderson. “My daughters, Barbara and Jenna, and I are proud to join the members of Echelon in supporting the Salvation Army,” Laura Bush said.
“The Salvation Army has served the people of Dallas for 125 years, and we are happy that Echelon is encouraging young adults to become the next generation of Salvation Army supporters.”
To satisfy partygoers, the Ritz whipped up some tasty bites, including goodies from the grilled cheese bar, while Creme de la Creme and Fluffpop provided the sweets. As for entertainment, Limelight kept guests — including Krystal Schlegel, Greg McElroy, Meredith Counce and Emily Noland — on the dance floor for hours.
But the evening wasn’t only about having a good time. It was an opportunity for multiple generations to work together toward a common charitable goal.
“Over the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Echelon grow into the impactful membership it is today,” said president Daniel Branch. “Not only have we learned what the Salvation Army does, but we have also become part of the mission ourselves. It’s pretty cool to be celebrating 30M in its second year and looking ahead to the difference Echelon will continue to make.”
Echelon who was founded in 2010 as an effort to mobilize the next generation of Salvation Army volunteers. Since then, it has grown to a membership of approximately 500 young adults.
Haley Anderson, Meredith Counce, Gene Jones, Ruth Altshuler, Charlotte Jones Anderson
