2024 Mardi Gras Gala
Save The Date & Laissez les bons temps rouler!“Let the good times roll!”
For 51 years, invaluable contributions to Victim Assistance Program have been the bedrock of our mission, directly aiding victims of crime and trauma in Summit County. In response to the escalating challenges of violence, our services have witnessed an increased demand. It is the commitment of donors like you who enable us to provide free 24/7 care to 5,000 individuals annually. Now, we present you with an opportunity that is not only meaningful…. but also promises a touch of fun.
On Saturday, March 09, 2024, we held our 32nd Annual Mardi Gras Gala Presented by Leppo Rents! Over 300 guests indulged in a gourmet meal, partook in an open bar, engage in games, bid on silent auction items, and dance the night away, all while helping us exceed our goal and raise $156,620. Our Bourbon Street extravaganza at The Quaker Station once again set the stage for a night of fundraising frenzy with a side of serious impact!
If you feel like you missed out, don’t worry! You can join us at The Quaker Station next year on March 8th, 2025!
Question? Reach out to [email protected]. 330-376-7022 ext. 212
Bernard I. Rosen Community Service Award
Amidst the festive camaraderie of our mission, the evening’s program honored both those we serve and those who serve us. Our 2024 prestigious Bernard I. Rosen Award was presented to a pair of distinguished ambassadors advocating for ‘Akron’s best-kept secret’ for over a decade, Dick Edwards & Marcia Adair.
Marcia and Dick grew up as Army brats, that is their fathers were carrier military officers. Therefore, every two to three years they would have to transfer to another military base, in another state. Because of that, they have lived in quite a few states in our country, as well as Marcia living in Taiwan for three years or so, Dick did the same but lived in Germany.
Early on in life they had a great opportunity to absorb quite a taste for how a lot of different kinds of people lived, thought, and acted towards each other. A good taste of the good, bad, and sometimes ugly. This base of knowledge would help build a base for what they would want to do later in life.
They met in 1981, here in Akron, both working for BFGoodrich Tires. Both started on the scientific side. Marcia had a master’s degree in physics which she used to become only the second female engineer, and started working on designing different types of tires, including Space Shuttle tires. Dick started with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Both later earned master’s degrees in business.
They built up a nice nest egg, hoping to: 1) provide themselves with decent health support; 2) get back to traveling the world again; 3) provide support for several causes that were/are near and dear to their hearts. Causes include both humans and the world of animals.
They had a pretty good plan, but then they heard about the Victim Assistance Program in 2011. It is now at the top of their collective list
