Location: River Oaks County Club
Voices for Hope Gala benefiting Avenue 360’s Omega House Hospice
Avenue 360’s Voices for Hope Fundraiser Raises Over $215,000 to Support Omega House, Texas’ First Residential Hospice for AIDS Patients
Houston, TX — Nearly 200 guests gathered at the River Oaks Country Club on Friday, November 8, for Voices for Hope, Avenue 360’s first major fundraising celebration since pre-Covid. Presented by Amerapex and co-chaired by Alicia Smith and Brigitte Kalai, the event resurrected the beloved tradition with a fresh name and an ambitious goal, ultimately raising over $215,000 in support of Omega House, a pioneering residential hospice providing compassionate care to terminally ill AIDS patients since its founding in 1986 as Texas’ first such haven. Many dedicated Omega House volunteers and supporters joined in the celebration, underscoring the community’s ongoing commitment to Avenue 360’s mission.
From start to finish, Voices for Hope truly resonated throughout the night.
A Night to Remember
The evening began with a vibrant cocktail reception, uniting longtime supporters of Bering Omega with new friends. With Houston’s own Deborah Duncan as emcee, guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere and entered a raffle for luxurious prizes, including dazzling earrings by Nini Jewels, a custom necklace by Wayne Smith Jewels donated by co-chair Brigitte Kalai, a shopping spree at Tootsie’s, and an ultimate staycation package at The Post Oak Hotel with a weekend Porsche rental, generously provided by Porsche River Oaks and Porsche West Houston.
Inside the ballroom, filled with colorful floral arrangements donated by H-E-B and luxurious linens and décor from Kirksey Gregg, guests were greeted by a moving surprise performance of “Seasons of Love” by the HSPVA choir, bringing many to tears. The incredible floral designs, crafted by H-E-B’s League City Market team under the direction of General Manager Gemma Smith, added a vibrant and elegant touch to the evening. Beaumont-based blues artist Luke Whitney then warmed up the crowd with soulful tunes. America’s Got Talent semifinalist Christina Wells then took the stage, leading the audience with her powerhouse renditions of anthems like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “We Are Family.” The night concluded with DJ Freddy B filling the dance floor, as guests sang into their light-up microphones for an unforgettable finale.
A heartwarming moment included Shelby Hodge gifting her raffle prize, the ultimate staycation, to Christina Wells, honoring the singer, nurse, and mother for her powerful voice and uplifting spirit.
Honoring Legacy and Leadership
The evening also commemorated the 25th anniversary of Bering Omega Community Services, a key part of Avenue 360’s legacy. As a tribute to this milestone, longtime board member Ken Bohan was presented with the Harmony of the Heart Award for his dedication and leadership. Omega House Medical Director Dr. Gus Krucke, Director of Dental Services Dr. Mark Nichols, and Omega House Director Sandy Stacy were honored with the Symphony of Service Award, with Stacy receiving a standing ovation for her 30 years of service.
A Message from Avenue 360
“Avenue 360 is grateful for the overwhelming support and generosity of our community,” said President and CEO Dr. Charlene Flash. “This year’s Voices for Hope event enables us to continue the essential work of Omega House, ensuring that those facing terminal illness find comfort and dignity in their final days.”
For more information about Avenue 360 and the Omega House program, please visit www.avenue360.org.
Photo credits: Daniel Ortiz
Who: Alicia and Lance Smith, Brigitte and Bashar Kalai, Hallie Vanderhider and Bobby Dees, Leisa Holland Nelson, Farida Abjani, Shelby Hodge and Shafik Rifaat, Omar and Maria Moncada Alaoui, Steve Spencer and Jody Merritt, Christine Johnson, Michele Till, Anna Reger, Mandy Kao, Mark Folkes and Christopher Johnston, Brandon Weinbrenner and Mitchell Greco, Amber Elliott, Fady Armanious, Tony Bradfield, Jeff Gremillion and Todd Ramos, Scott Evans and Aaron Matthews
Contact Information:
Director of Development, Lena Khattab
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