Putting the "fun" in fundraising

By Kristin Kendle on October 31, 2012

WHEN YOUNG PEOPLE DO GOOD >>>

It's always a good thing when you can get dressed to the nines and help to better mankind, or at least the community around you. Head to Tacoma Art Museum, Nov. 10, and you can do just that at the Get Involved Gala 2012 - or the GIG, if you're in the know. The Get Involved Gala is a fundraiser, but also a rollicking night on the town.

GIG is an event hosted by Project: U - United Way of Pierce County's team of 20- and 30-something do-gooders. Funds raised by this great gala go directly to the United Way's Community Solutions Fund.

"This fund acts as a safety net and supports over 117 local nonprofits in the area," says Alicia Carter, vocational counselor at United Way of Pierce County. "It focuses on criteria such as education, income stabilization and health."

This semi-formal event fills the hallowed halls of Tacoma Art Museum with DJs pumping out the tunes, dancers in their finery, drinks in hand, appetizers and desserts flowing freely. This year, attendees will get a special bonus - access to the new Andy Warhol exhibit from 8 to 9 p.m.

"There will also be a professional photo booth with pictures printed on-site this year," says Carter.

Face it, folks. This may be your only chance to get a prom picture as an adult!

"I think it's important to note that this is United Way Pierce County's only actual fundraising event besides workplace campaigns," says Carter. "It's also a great way for young professionals to meet other people in the community and find out about other ways to get involved."

It's best to buy your tickets in advance at GetInvolvedGala.org before Nov. 9. Tickets are $50 for one or $95 for two - woo, savings! Tickets are available at the door for $60 each, but be warned, they are available in limited quantities and there's no guarantee you'll even get in.

"We can't guarantee how many will be available at the door since there is a max number of attendees," says Carter. "You might get all dressed up and have nowhere to go!"

TACOMA ART MUSEUM, GET INVOLVED GALA, SATURDAY, NOV. 10, 8-11 P.M., $15, 1701 PACIFIC AVE., TACOMA, GETINVOLVEDGALA.ORG