Left to right: Deb Morgaina, Mary Cavanaugh Marsh, Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord and Kate Hopeman
Dawn Bogart
It’s time to don your fashionable derby hat and dress in your best southern attire because the horses are lining up at the starting gate for Homeless Youth Connection’s third annual Racing for Hope event on Saturday, May 6, 2017, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Wigwam Resort. This festive garden party features a rustic blend of the Southwest with the pageantry of the Kentucky Derby, which is simulcast live during the event.
Homeless Youth Connection (HYC) provides homeless youth with the resources to stay in school so they can graduate. HYC gives students a full range of services and case management including providing basic needs, counseling, adult mentors and Host Families for youth on their own and have exhausted all safe housing options.
Racing for Hope guests are invited to mix and mingle in their best Derby attire (there’s a Best Dressed contest!) as they join the fun of horse race betting with Derby Dollars, drinks and a delicious lunch, all in the fabulous outdoor setting of the Wigwam Resort’s front lawn. Derby Dollars can be used to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win exciting vacation packages or electronics. Guests can also purchase mystery boxes featuring a variety of gift packages.
This year HYC is also introducing a new Jockey Club VIP ticket package! The ticket price of $200 includes: Private event entrance with valet parking; exclusive photo opportunity; exclusive champagne cocktail to get the party started; entrance to the Winner’s Pavilion; delicious southern cuisine; two complimentary drink coupons; four raffle tickets; $100 in Derby Dollars; access to the after-party at the Wigwam Resort.
“This event is always an important fundraiser for HYC and the hundreds of homeless youths we serve. Thanks to community support, we have expanded our services throughout the valley and we are on track to serve more than 600 homeless youths by the end of the year. The continued support of the community is more vital than ever in order to meet our goals,” said Executive Director Dawn Bogart.
General admission tickets are available for $100. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Tickets can be purchased at https://hyc-racing-for-hope.eventbrite.com or by calling 623-374-3747. For more information about HYC visit www.hycaz.org.