Introduction to a Noble Cause
A child sleeping on the floor isn’t just a statistic — it’s a crisis. And on May 8, more than 400 guests packed River Oaks Country Club to do something about it. The event was the Furniture Bank’s No Kids on the Floor gala, an evening dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a mission that aims to provide beds to the estimated 300,000 children in Houston without one.
The Gala Event
The gala, chaired by advocates and board members Francie and Mike Willis, raised more than $300,000, a record-breaking figure for the organization. This significant amount supports the Furniture Bank’s mission, which has already placed more than 4,000 beds since the program launched in 2018. The evening, emceed by Linda Lorelle, featured a moving video highlighting founder Oli Mohammed and the organization’s impact.
Honoring Contributions
Ralph Marek was posthumously honored as the night’s Legacy Honoree, with his son Stan Marek accepting on behalf of the family. The inaugural Jodie Hoffer Community Service Award — named for the late Furniture Bank champion — was presented to Youval Meicler of Texas Mattress Makers, whose support has been both generous and hands-on. These recognitions underscore the importance of community and the impact of individual and corporate contributions to the cause.
A Night of Inspiration and Giving
A heartfelt speech from the eldest child of a family served by the organization reminded the crowd what this night was really about: Dignity, safety, and the power of something as simple as a bed. Pianist Doug Montgomery provided the soundtrack for the evening, while Johnny Bravo rallied the room for a spirited live auction and appeal. Elegant florals by H-E-B, a sold-out Giving Tree, and a silent auction featuring rare wine lots rounded out the festivities, making the event a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees.
Attendees and Supporters
In attendance were numerous supporters, including Ben Marek, Roz and Alan Pactor, Scott and Samantha Hoffer, Karen and Larry Cress, Michele Meicler, Jody Merritt, Christine Johnson, Janice Hall, Hershey Grace and Ed McMahon, Cinde and Gary Matocha, Edna Meyer Nelson, Jeff and Harry Cummins, Lisa and Bob Gulitti, Regina Rogers, Steve Finger, Frank Monacelli and Gloria Nino-Monacelli, Danna and Hal Lynde, Allison and Stuart Peterson, Jill and John Parsley, Molly and Miles Marks, Kip Altstaetter, Frank Billingsley and Kevin Gilliard, Audrey and Phillip Davis, Michael Galloway, Laura Ward, Cathy and Bud Geisinger. The diverse group of attendees highlighted the broad community support for the Furniture Bank’s mission.
Conclusion
The success of the No Kids on the Floor gala is a testament to the power of community and the impact of collective action. By raising over $300,000 and bringing attention to the critical issue of children sleeping on the floor, the event marked a significant step towards ensuring that every child in Houston has a bed to sleep in. The Furniture Bank’s mission is a reminder that even the simplest acts of kindness and generosity can lead to profound changes in the lives of others, and events like the gala are crucial in mobilizing support and resources for those in need.
