Introduction to the Fire & Ice Gala
The American Red Cross Fire and Ice Gala was held on Friday night at the Albany Capital Center, with hundreds of people in attendance. NEWS10’s Lydia Kulbida was the emcee for the event, which aims to raise funds for the multiple missions of the Red Cross of Eastern New York for the next year.
The event featured music from Soul Session, which drew people to the dance floor, but the primary goal was to encourage support for the Red Cross’s work throughout the year.
The Importance of the Red Cross
Kevin Coffey, CEO of the American Red Cross of Eastern NY, highlighted the organization’s crucial role in responding to disasters. "Every eight minutes, the Red Cross is responding to a disaster. That can be a home fire in their community or what’s happening in the Midwest with severe weather events. We have 16 volunteers from our own region that are deployed right now, so fundraisers like the Fire and Ice event make sure that the Red Cross can be strong in our community each and every day."
Personal Stories of Impact
Rob Daggett, a board member, shared his experience with the Red Cross and how it has touched lives in many ways. He recalled a story about a volunteer who helped a single mom after a home fire, providing her with food, shelter, and a place to stay, as well as a recharge for her child’s insulin. This experience solidified his commitment to the organization, and he was honored with the Humanitarian Spirit Award.
Ongoing Missions and Events
The Red Cross’s work is ongoing, with a constant need for blood donations and other forms of support. Board Chair Rose Miller is already preparing for the next event, Sound the Alarm, which aims to install free smoke alarms in Capital Region communities. The organization relies on volunteers to make these events successful and encourages everyone to get involved.
Fundraising Success
This year’s Fire & Ice Gala was a significant success, raising $355,000 through ticket sales, silent auction bids, and "Raise for Relief" pledges. These funds will help support the Red Cross’s multiple missions in the coming year.
Conclusion
The American Red Cross Fire and Ice Gala was a resounding success, raising thousands of dollars for future missions. The event highlighted the importance of the Red Cross’s work and the impact it has on people’s lives. As the organization continues to respond to disasters and provide essential services, it relies on the support of the community to make its missions possible.
FAQs
- What is the American Red Cross Fire and Ice Gala?
The American Red Cross Fire and Ice Gala is an annual event that raises funds for the multiple missions of the Red Cross of Eastern New York. - How much money was raised at this year’s gala?
This year’s gala raised $355,000 through ticket sales, silent auction bids, and "Raise for Relief" pledges. - What is the Red Cross’s mission?
The Red Cross responds to disasters, provides blood donations, and offers other essential services to those in need. - How can I get involved with the Red Cross?
You can get involved by volunteering, donating blood, or participating in events like the Fire & Ice Gala or Sound the Alarm. - What is Sound the Alarm?
Sound the Alarm is an event where the Red Cross installs free smoke alarms in Capital Region communities to help save lives.
