Gal-a Gals, "Mom Prom" Raise Funds for Southwest Family Life Center
When Katie Haby of Hondo, Texas, heard about her former college roommate’s involvement in a “mom prom” fundraiser in her community, she was inspired. ”I love things that bring people together,” says Katie. “I have always enjoyed events that bring big crowds together to socialize, whether that is dinner parties, dances, or community events.”
After mulling it over, Katie brought the idea for starting an event in Hondo to her friend and coworker at Medina Electric Cooperative Inc., Jackie Muennink. “She said she thought it was a great idea and would help,” shares Katie. Later that evening, Katie saw Hondo ISD Assistant Superintendent Rose Mary Mares at a meeting and mentioned the idea to her.
“Rose Mary called me the next day and said she had hundreds of people interested,” says Katie. “So we started planning, and the rest is history!”
Unlike a high school prom, the Gal-a Gals’ mom prom boasts a night without the guys and without the drama. Guests are encouraged to flaunt a new formal, or show up in blue jeans, as long as they come ready for an evening of fun and fundraising for a good cause.
About the Southwest Family Life Center
This year’s event will support the Southwest Family Life Center, which provides comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and teen dating violence. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit serves Frio, Medina, and Uvalde counties, and their main office is located in Hondo.
”When I formed the idea for the Gal-a, I wanted it to be something that could raise money for the community, but didn't want it to only benefit one organization over and over again,” she says. “The goal is to have the event annually, but change the beneficiary.” It will be hosted at the Graff 7A Ranch Dance Barn.
Getting Community Support
The small band of event founders quickly asked others to join their team of ambassadors, or Gal-a Gals. “We reached out to people that we saw as leaders in the community who all had different connections and ways of serving and asked if they could help,” says Katie. “Everyone has been amazingly supportive and given of their time, talent, and treasure in their own way. I really think that is why this has been such a success so far.”
Getting Others Involved
The response was overwhelming. Tickets for this year’s event sold out in less than a week. “It was an amazing, beautiful response,” says Katie. “Businesses can still help by donating door prizes, or sponsoring at the Cleopatra, Princess Diana, or Frida level.” There are about a dozen tickets being held for any businesses that choose to sponsor at the Diana or Frida level. The group is also looking for any additional raffle prize donations valued at $25 or greater.
Gal-a Gals T-Shirts
Get your own Gal-a Gals shirt for $25. All proceeds go to the Southwest Family Life Center. The shirt features the Maya Angelou quote, “Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women” on the front and the event sponsors on the back.
“Everyone has come together, and it just shows the power of our communities - Hondo, Castroville, Devine, and D'hanis! When we all work together, everyone wins.”
-Katie Haby
