There is no shortage of galas in the city during the fall. And while some strongly suggest a certain attire be required for entry, one gala celebrating its sixth year is asking people to dress casual and come uptown to get down while doing some good, too.
Art Aid for Tesfa, an annual event and nonprofit created by local artist Stephanie Schlatter, will be held at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center. The event raises funds each year for the children of Ethiopia, one of Africa’s poorest and oldest countries, with an illiteracy rate of two-thirds.
Schlatter discovered on a trip to Ethiopia years ago that she could use her art to help make a difference in the lives of the children who do not have access to an education.
Together with the Tesfa Foundation, they have built schools and created early childhood education in a county where most children are sent into the street instead of the classroom.
At this event, guests will have a chance to bid on artwork as well as one of the many silent auction items.
To keep the evening bright, bold, and festive, Grand Rapids’ 12-member, horn and percussion-focused band, Afro Zuma, will entertain attendees throughout the night with their African funk and Afro-beat music. Hors d'oeuvres prepared by Tommy Fitzgerald Catering as well authentic Ethiopean cuisine will be available for noshing. Amore Trattoria Italiana will satisfy your sweet tooth with a delicious assortment of desserts.
Fans of the grape will love their unique and sure-to-be fast-paced Wine Raffle, where you purchase a numbered cork and when your number is called (and it will be called at one point during the event), you will have your choice of wine up to a $120 value, double magnums, or even a wine club membership. The cost per wine cork is only $20, but you are guaranteed a bottle, with the best prizes going to the first called.
It is sure to be an inspired good time for all as I, along with WXMI FOX17’s Emily Richett, keep things rolling as your emcees for the night.
“The children in Ethiopia inspire me with their enthusiasm for learning and they’ve taught me that you can be happy with so little,” Schlatter says. “A proper education is a human right, not a privilege, and it’s the least we can offer them.”
Grand Rapids people can make a difference in our world and in the lives of others, as evident by Schlatter and her annual event where 100 percent of the money raised at this event will go directly to Art Aid for Tesfa.
Admission: $50. (Tickets can be purchased at the door as well.)
More Info