Gala to benefit troubled girls
Feb. 2, 2005

Austin - "Red, White and Denim." That's the theme for this year's Make a Difference gala to benefit New Life Children’s Center for abused and neglected girls.

The Feb. 19 event at Barton Creek Resort and Spa in Austin, Texas, features a live concert by Texas favorites, The Geezinslaws and the Kyle Sisters. The night also includes dinner, a silent auction and a fun-filled live auction.

In five years, Make a Difference has raised more than $360,000 for the troubled girls at New Life Center located at Canyon Lake. Last year, more than 400 friends of New Life joined in the fun and fellowship to raise a record $110,850. The Make a Difference committee hopes to set another milestone this year by meeting a goal of $115,000.

New Life serves girls ages 11 to 17 who suffer from severe emotional and behavioral problems, mostly as a result of past abuse and neglect. The center provides a secure, structured environment where residents receive therapy, attend an on-campus school year-round and enjoy recreational activities. Just as important, they are given the opportunity to voluntarily participate in a spiritual care program specifically designed for children.

“These are great girls that have been dealt a difficult hand in life. Many of them have never experienced the benefits of a loving family,” said Lutheran Social Services Chief
Executive Officer Kurt Senske. “They are genuinely surprised and touched to hear that people care enough about them to give their hard-earned money and valuable time to make sure they have a chance at a better life.”

This year’s gala will be co-hosted by Austin media personalities Kevin Benz, news director for News 8 Austin, and Olga Campos, News Anchor for KVUE-TV.

The public is invited to help make this year a Texas-sized success. Reservations start at $75. For more information, please call (512) 706-7518 or click here.