2025 Mardi Gras Gala
With Sincere Appreciation to our Donor Community
Dear Valued Supporters,
It is with a heavy heart that we write to inform you of an important decision regarding our annual Mardi Gras Gala. After conducting a thorough review, Victim Assistance Program has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Mardi Gras Gala.
Our commitment to fiscal responsibility is paramount, especially as the demand for our services continues to grow. The costs and resources associated with hosting the gala this year simply do not align with the benefits, and it is our duty to ensure that every dollar is used effectively to support those in need.
We are incredibly grateful for your unwavering support in previous years, which has played a crucial role in the success of our events and the well-being of those we serve. Your generosity and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and we sincerely thank you for being a beacon of hope for victims in our community. While we regret that we will not be able to celebrate together at the Mardi Gras Gala this year, we are actively exploring alternative ways to engage with our donor community.
Our financial needs persist, and we humbly request your continued support through donations. Your contributions are vital in enabling us to provide essential services to those who depend on us and allow victims to write their new stories of how they have been able to turn from hardship to healing.
Your generosity has the power to make a significant difference. Every donation helps us to offer the support and assistance that victims need to rebuild their lives. We are confident that with your support, we can continue to fulfill our mission and make a lasting impact.
Thank you once again for your understanding and unwavering support. We look forward to finding new and innovative ways to connect with you and continue our shared mission of helping those in need.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Leanne Graham
President & CEO
Questions? Reach out to info@victimassistanceprogram.org. 330-376-7022 ext. 218
___________________________________________________________________________________
2024 Gala
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!
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
