News

The Community Foundation of West Tennessee will host the 32nd Annual Charity Gala on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in downtown Jackson.

“Investing in West Tennessee is at the heart of our mission. The Charity Gala gives us the opportunity to highlight the work of leaders in Jackson, raise funds to support critical community needs, and partner with businesses in the region,” said Frank McMeen, President of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee.

The Charity Gala is the largest fundraiser hosted by The Foundation and raises funds to support critical community initiatives, like the organization’s annual Community Impact Grants.

The black and white affair will feature a cocktail hour, silent auction, seated dinner, award presentations, and live entertainment. The Foundation is excited to welcome back Caleb Minter and the Structure Band as the evening’s entertainment.

“One of the elements that makes the Charity Gala so special is the entertainment. We are thrilled to bring back Caleb Minter and the Structure Band,” said Darren Lykes, Board of Trustees member and volunteer. “At last year’s event, our guests never left the dance floor, and we look forward to having the same energy again.”

The Foundation will recognize nine individuals who made an impact on Jackson during the award presentations at the event. This year’s recipients are:
Allison DeMarcus – Tigrett Award
Jim Norton and Robert Walden – Dr. A. Barnett Scott Service Award
Andrew Boks – Jackson Award for The Arts
Dr. Jeremy Tubbs – Jackson Award for Education
John H. Weston, Jr. – Jackson Award for Healthcare
Young Kim – Jackson Award for Leadership
Jackie Utley – Jackson Award for Volunteer Service
Elvia Trejo Reyes – Jackson Award for Youth

“We have a great group of award recipients this year, and we are proud to honor them for their work in our community,” said Beth Koffman, Chief Operating Officer of the Community Foundation of West Tennessee. “These awards shine a spotlight on the individuals who are making an impact in our area and reflect the growth, diversity, and future of Jackson.”

The Patrons’ Party is a cocktail party hosted the night before the Charity Gala to celebrate the award recipients and thank event sponsors. It has quickly become a guest favorite for the lively atmosphere and delicious food.

Tickets for the Charity Gala are $2,500 for a table of eight or $350 per individual ticket, which includes a cocktail hour, silent auction, seated dinner, and live entertainment. Sponsorships are available starting at $3,500. To secure your seats for the Charity Gala, contact Haley Wildridge by email at haley@cfwtn.org or call (731) 984-2146.

Learn more about the event at www.TheCharityGala.org.

The Charity Gala is the largest annual fundraiser hosted by the Community Foundation of West Tennessee, welcoming over 600 guests to Jackson for the weekend. The event includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, seated dinner, award presentations, live music, and dancing. Proceeds from the event support critical community initiatives. The Charity Gala has come to be recognized as one of West Tennessee’s “most elegant events.”

The Community Foundation of West Tennessee was established in 1985 to strengthen the health and well-being of the region by serving as a catalyst for positive changes in the arts, education, healthcare, and other causes. It enhances the quality of life for residents by supporting programs, initiatives, and organizations serving rural West Tennessee. Learn more at www.cfwtn.org.