Mamas for Mamas gear up for sold out annual fundraiser

For those of you looking forward to scoring a ticket to one of the hottest fundraising events of the year, think again. The Mamas for Mamas Oscars Through the Ages Gala, set to take place on Nov. 9, is officially sold out!

Though you may be a little sad knowing you have to miss out on the fun, you should take great pride in knowing you’re part of such a philanthropic community that is so eager and willing to help.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the incredible support from our community. This was a first for us to sell out before public release,” said Shannon Christensen, Executive Director of Mamas for Mamas.

“It is such a huge confirmation that our mission is touching the hearts of not only the mamas and families we serve, but everybody who witnesses the impact of what we do.”

Over the last three years the organization has been able to rapidly meet their fundraising goals, as well as raise them, in order fund their vital programs.

“It's a bit surreal to look back and see where we were last year and to see where we are now. The amount of time, energy and passion that has gone into this agency is nothing short of miraculous, it is humbling to have so many people join this movement,” said Christensen.

“Our increased fundraising success this year is greatly attributed to our Gold level sponsors who bought VIP tables to raise the bar on how we raise funds for this agency,”

This year, the Mamas have a goal of raising $125,000 to go toward their biggest initiative, The Mamas at Risk Comprehensive program.

The program supports mothers and families in crisis, who may be facing homelessness and poverty-related issues like food insecurity, safety issues, mental health concerns and everything in between.

In addition, funds will also be spread across to their Fill the Gap Dental program, Jillian Harris Karma Market and the At-Risk Teen Shopping Centre to provide emergency dental care, and clothing to those in need.

“We work hard to give these individuals and families a hand up not a handout, to provide long-term solutions to chronic and entrenched social problems — It is our personal and ongoing mission to ensure there is no mama or child left behind,” added Christensen.

Kate Snowsell, the Mamas for Mamas pro bono laywer from Doak Sherriff LLP says, "We are so excited to be title sponsor for this amazing event again this year. The positive impact Mamas for Mamas has on local families will carry forward for years, and we can’t think of a better way to give back to our community than to help this organization offer the tools, connections and support struggling mamas need to improve their situations, and allow their children to have a childhood."

If you’ve been one of the lucky few to snag a ticket, the Mamas have been working hard to bring you a glamorous evening fit for even the biggest Hollywood stars.

The black tie, red carpet affair hosted by Casey Clarke promises to be an evening to remember — with stilt walkers, dancers, paparazzi, surprise entertainment and divine delicacies inspired by the biggest blockbuster hits.

With an A-list event, comes A-list items during the high-energy live auction valued at $75,000 and hosted by WestJet founder, Don Bell.

Up for grabs is a week-long trip to Costa Rica, an evening with Josh Gorges and Jordin Tootoo for an exciting Rockets game with the addition of other exciting prizes, and many more to be announced!

“We are so incredibly proud to be such a welcome presence in our community,"

"We believe firmly that charity in itself will never solve poverty, but a community coming together with a charitable mindset can change the landscape of poverty in our local and global community — For us this level of support is everything."

If you’re not able to attend, but would still like to show your support, you can visit the Mamas for Mamas online auction, or donate through their website.