​CHARISM presents Light the Way Gala

The inaugural CHARISM Light the Way event is scheduled for the evening of November 17 at the Avalon Event Center. The gala will include a social hour with hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and a silent auction that will serve “as an evening of hope and possibility to light the way for bright futures.”

All proceeds benefit the CHARISM Cares Program, designed to provide at-risk children, youth and families with “opportunities to access meaningful and enriching out-of-school programming without worrying about barriers to participation, and not letting poverty impact their potential,” according to Brittany LaForte. Brittany is Operations Director for CHARISM and has been with the nonprofit since early 2016.

Tickets are available via Eventbrite and also via cash, check, or credit card at the CHARISM headquarters.

Brittany describes the event as “an evening celebrating hope and possibility – highlighting stories from our meaningful children, youth, and family programs.” The social hour will kick off at 6pm, as well as the silent auction, and then what Brittany describes as a light program will begin at 7pm, featuring CHARISM’s work, including “stories of success and resiliency from within the community” which she describes as “inspiring.” At 7:45, she says, “the energy will be ramping up” and they will have “an exciting musical performance.”

The silent auction will include art work, hotel packages, signed Minnesota Vikings merchandise, NDSU Bison Football Tickets, a t-shirt signed by Carson Wentz, an NHL Hockey jersey, a tablet, fitness memberships, electronics, a custom-made corn hole game, home décor, and much more.

When asked about the work CHARISM does in our community, Brittany said: “CHARISM works towards building stronger neighborhoods by building stronger people. We take a holistic approach to provide a helping hand for families to assist them in building a firm foundation for their own personal growth, sustainability, and bright future. CHARISM serves families from all over Fargo with a concentrated effort in the Jefferson neighborhood – within McCormick Park is where our Family Center and our Youth Center are located.”

CHARISM also offers adults and parents opportunities to engage in life skills training, language classes, community gardening, and group activities, with access to supplemental grocery programs and connections to community resources.

Through CHARISM, youth have access to leadership and mentorship programs “during the ‘danger zone’ time of 3 to 6pm and throughout the summer months when, youth are more likely to engage in delinquent behavior. By providing positive role models, strong character development, and leadership activities we are keeping youth on a positive path to graduation and further achievement.”

CHARISM offers children chances to expand their learning through STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts Math) education, tutoring, art, and recreation after school programming and summer camps.

Brittany describes CHARISM’s programs as “holistic in the fact that we are providing consistent year-round enrichment resources for adults, youth, and children to provide the whole family opportunities for growth. CHARISM is a positive, safe, and inviting place in the community where neighbors can come together to learn, grow, and build a stronger sense of belonging.”

CHARISM also partners with various groups to provide positive family-focused community events. A few examples include the Cocoa with a Cop, Fargo United, and Cool Off with a Cop as well as Family Game Nights at the CHARISM Family Center, located at 622 23rd Street S., Fargo.

IF YOU GO

CHARISM Light the Way Fundraiser

Thursday, November 17, 6-9pm

Avalon Events Center, 2525 9th Ave S, Fargo

Tickets: $40, table sponsorship, $500

Info: BrittanyLaForte,701-356-0262

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/charism-light-the-way-tickets-27956604958