YMCA hosts Kentucky Derby gala

WILKES-BARRE – The Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA hosted its fourth annual Kentucky Derby Gala at the Westmoreland Club with the support of the events presenting sponsor, Discover NEPA. Proceeds from the event support families in the YMCA’s Early Learning Center Programs, which includes four locations with capacity to serve up to 800 children daily.

“The level of support is truly unprecedented, and we are grateful for everyone who made a contribution to the Kentucky Derby,” Jim Thomas, Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA CEO, said.

The event started with a special greeter, Carl the Mini Pony from Country Heart Farms, then cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Club while The Dixieland Brass Band played in the background.

After cocktail hour, 200 guests proceeded to the Club Tent where they enjoyed the décor of beautiful displays of roses on every table designed by Floral Designs and even an ice sculpture in the shape of the Kentucky Derby trophy.

After dinner, a hat contest was held for the best hats and attire, with local guest judge Emily Novakowski. Dancing continued throughout the night, along with wagers on pre-recorded horse races with live caller, Jim Beviglia from Pocono Downs. A grand prize raffle, sponsored by Fidelity Bank, was raffled off as well to complete the evening.

Co-Chairs Lissa Bryan-Smith, Ali Zurawski and Kathy Dunsmuir stated, “It was a festive evening celebrating the support of our local YMCA by so many community members and businesses. Every dollar raised will make a difference for our YMCA families in need.”

YMCA supporters were able to participate in the event in many ways; by attending the dinner, purchasing raffle tickets, bidding in the online silent auction, or wagering on the pre-recorded horse races. After expenses the event is expected to be able to put over $100,000 into the YMCA’s scholarship fund for families.

“This was a huge team effort, with months of planning,” Janelle Drach, Wilkes-Barre YMCA Branch executive director, noted. “We had a wonderful committee and staff who supported this event and it really came together because of their commitment to our cause.”