Houston young professionals unite against cancer
With goals of raising money for the American Cancer Society and introducing young professionals to philanthropy, the Starlight Gala was established in 1996. Comprised of Houston’s brightest young leaders, these young philanthropists give back to the community in a big way.
The 13th Annual Starlight Gala will be held March 29 at the Edwin Hornberger Conference Center, located in the Texas Medical Center. “Lone Star Tribute: Honor and Remembrance Under the Texas Sky,” encourages patrons to cut loose in true Texas style: entertainment will be provided by Texas High Life; guitars donated and signed by Miranda Lambert and LeAnn Rimes will be auctioned; and bottomless wine will be served. Texas-themed gambling and food for every palate help round out the entertainment.
This year’s gala chairs, Kristen Belote and Robin Milstead, used their corporate connections to help make this event a success. Gallagher Healthcare, where Belote is a financial analyst, has raised more than $11,000 in donations and has 16 fellow employees volunteering for the gala. Milstead’s company, Bradsby Group, also elected to become a sponsor and by doing so, involved some of their clients. Both thank their companies for giving them the freedom to focus on this event during daytime hours.
Large donors and companies have backed the young professional group since its inception. With the support of these companies, and others like them, volunteers feel confident they will reach their lofty fund raising goal of $125,000. This year’s list of donors includes: Gallagher Healthcare, AIG, Compass Bank, Core Services, AspenTech, The Bradsby Group, Andrews and Kurth LLP, Continental Airlines, Southwest Airlines, John P. McGovern Foundation and Karma Nine Marketing Firm.
Houston’s future leaders are creating positive changes according to Belote and Milstead. They put aside their careers and help others by supporting the fight against cancer. “We have all been touched by cancer and after all is said and done, ultimately each of us wakes up everyday and makes a conscious choice that we will be a part of change,” says Milstead. “The Starlight Gala is just the beginning for many of us.”
For more information on the Houston Starlight Gala go to, www.starlightgala.org or www.myspace.com/starlightgala.
