Returning to an in-person event after our 2020 virtual edition was a big task to ensure the safety of ourselves and our guests. Couple that with record breaking attendance, and the task became monumental. However, with the help of many volunteers and our staff, we managed to make a safe and unforgettable evening at the Dixie Convention Center where good times were had by all.
The Secret Garden Gala 2022 took place on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at the Dixie Convention Center with the support of 21 sponsors and 275 guests. This was our first year at the new venue, as we had outgrown our previous spaces. The new accommodations proved to be essential for the spirited silent and live auctions, raffle, catered dinner and main program- with some very special guests. See how The Secret Garden Gala 2022 came to life.
The Main Program
At 5 PM we began our social hour and started the silent auction. Dinner was served soon after, and Tyler Hunsaker and Fred Walker, our returning Emcees, welcomed the crowd. We were then offered an insightful message from our past Board President, Dr. Ellen Arch. Our annual awards followed afterward and led right into a very special video about our work here at Root for Kids, which you can watch here. As if emotions weren’t running high enough after that, we then had a special performance by Madi’s All Star Dance Group that brought absolute joy to the audience. Closing the night, an absolutely raucous live auction that raised money for our enrolled families at Root for Kids.
The Awards
We couldn’t be more honored to recognize our award winners for The Secret Garden Gala 2022:
- Outstanding Community Partner: Associated General Contractors
- Outstanding Business: InfoWest
- Outstanding Health Partner: Jeremy & Laurie Scholzen
- Outstanding Volunteer: Dixie State University Nursing Program
- Outstanding Donor: Larry R Hansen
- Debbie Justice Legacy Award: US Representative, V. Lowry Snow
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for the continued and enduring support you give to support our mission at Root for Kids.
Our Generous Sponsors
A special thank you to our platinum and presenting sponsor, Litehouse. The generosity of their donation provided us with an incredible foundation to build on for the funds we raised the evening of the gala. We enjoyed having representatives from Litehouse join us on-stage in recognizing our annual community award winners. It means so much to have Litehouse as a donor, a friend and proponent of our mission since 2018.
We had 21 amazing sponsors supporting The Secret Garden Gala 2022, and the event wouldn’t have been the success that it was without their contribution. Stephen Wade Auto Center, John A Gullo and Family and the Hurst Wood Education Foundation were our gold sponsors. Snow Jensen & Reece Attorneys at Law and Watts Construction were our silver sponsors.
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank these generous businesses in our community:
A Huge Thanks
We had some massive help making the event such a successful night. Our friends Fred Walker and Tyler Hunsaker served as the emcees for the night, providing lively commentary and some big laughs. Leslie and Ralph from the Dixie Convention Center coordinated and decorated our event flawlessly. Kris Archer from Bougie Balloons added some serious flair by bringing in ornate balloons and décor for display. And finally, our staff who worked tirelessly up to the last minute. Everyone who worked behind the scenes made the Garden Room picturesque from floor to ceiling and deserves a huge thanks!
What’s Next?
Our 2nd annual Glow-in-the-Dark Golf Tournament is right around the corner, happening on Friday, October 21, 2022. Golfers will enjoy 18 holes of golf, 9 holes during the day and 9 holes after sunset. Golfer can purchase mulligans and raffle tickets, and will enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner and a bag of glow in the dark swag.
If you are interested in taking part, we will be putting tickets on-sale soon. If you are interested in sponsoring our event, please contact Monica Jones at events@rootforkids.org or at (435) 673-5353.
