As we head into the Memorial Day Weekend, we want to pause for a moment of deep appreciation and gratitude.

The Universal Healthcare Gala this past Saturday was a resounding success. We want to share our joy with some photos and an update on the Gala’s donations.

Drumroll please…with your help, Whole Washington raised over…

$21,000!!

We’re Still in the Afterglow Stage!

As the bids and pledges were tallied, Executive Director Andre Stackhouse pointed out this grand total is more than ten times what we’ve raised before in any previous fundraiser. And because a successful, statewide initiative campaign can easily require a foundation of $100,000, this milestone is worth cheering about.

Teamwork Makes This Dream Work

The success of the event went far beyond dollars. From our Board Chair, Carey Wallace:

‘All I have is gratitude! The organizers did an absolutely incredible job centering the importance of this issue, compelling attendees to dig deep to contribute, and making sure everyone had a good time. I walked away feeling incredibly proud of how far we’ve come to really legitimize Whole Washington, and our dedicated volunteers, as leaders in this movement. It was a huge success all around.’

From Board Member, Pam Kentzer:

‘The gala was amazing, So many great people there, wonderful entertainment, great auction items, food was great and the desserts incredible. Thank you everyone! I learned a lot, saw so many friends, made new ones and my big sister Gloria had an amazing time. Way to go Whole Washington!’

From Vice Chair, Kathryn Lewandowsky:

‘What an exciting evening! It was so great to be around our supporters and volunteers sharing our work around this very important need. Loved the music, the entertainment and being able to break bread together as we pursue our shared goals of healing this very ill healthcare financing system of ours. I can’t thank the committee members enough and our volunteers who dedicated so much of their time in making this an extra special, landmark event for Whole Washington!’

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You

Heartfelt thanks to our speakers Senator Manka Dhingra, Dr. Nora Kenworthy, and Senator Bob Hasegawa. Your insight was so on point, and we know we can always count on you!

A huge shout out to the performers Forest Embers and her pun-tastic troupe, Collin Stackhouse & Rosie O’Neil, and our stunning MC Sailor St. Claire.

Our sponsors were foundational to the event’s success. Thank you Green Party of Washington, Transit Riders Union, Adrift Hotel, One Payer States, Washington CAN and thank you to everyone who sponsored tables, pledged, bid, and brought friends. Your generosity was truly ginormous.

Finally, we are so proud of Aimee Storm and the Gala Team of Volunteers. You showed us what’s possible!