Volunteers of America Oregon supporters who pledged at the $100 level DePreist Award for Excellence event and their guests gathered on Sunday evening to enjoy a party hosted by VOA Oregon supporter and friend Thomas Lauderdale who called it an ‘Ice Cream Social and Sing-a-Long!’ The event was all those things and more. Guests enjoyed delicious artisan ice cream generously donated by Salt & Straw, delicious cocktails featuring The Gwyneth Royale special beverage served at the DePreist Award event as well as delicious appetizers catered by Devil’s Food Catering. During the event, President/CEO Kay D. Toran welcomed guests and provided an overview of VOA Oregon’s comprehensive programs and deep impact across our community. She also took another opportunity to thank Thomas Lauderdale for his incredible generosity not only in hosting this party, but for serving as co-emcee and making it possible for Pink Martini to play the “party after the party” for this year’s DePreist Award event. Last, but certainly not least, the moment we all had been waiting for: Thomas Lauderdale leading guests in a sing-a-long ranging from Oklahoma to Somewhere (from West Side Story) to Memory (from Cats) to to Edelweiss and everything in between including our VOA Oregon Board of Directors Vice Chair Earl Hines to join with a friend to serenade the group and another guest singing Puccini’s O Mio Babbino Caro from Gianni Schicchi and the group singing Mack the Knife. We are most grateful to Thomas Lauderdale for so generously opening his home to us and sharing his talents. We also offer thanks to the generous donors and their guests who joined us for this special evening.

Thank you for joining us at A Summer Soiree. The event was a huge success and we had a fabulous time connecting and celebrating with you. Your support of the Family Relief Nursery is making a profound impact in the lives of the most vulnerable and reducing the risk of child abuse and neglect.