Julia Moore welcomes guests

LEESBURG — The giving spirit of the community was unmasked at the Cancer Care Fund of Kosciusko County Masquerade Ball Saturday evening, Aug. 29, in the Tippecanoe Country Club.

Approximately 100 attended an evening of fun, but more importantly an opportunity to give to those in need. Approximately $23,550 was raised through purchase of 35 different silent auction and 13 live auction items.

“We raised a lot of money for those in need,” said Rebecca Spitler, chairwoman for the gala. New this year was the opportunity for individuals to specifically purchase items for patients: gift cards at $50, utilities at $125, a car payment and gas card at $300 and rent or mortgage payment for a month at $500. “People love to see where their money is going and they dig deep in their pockets,” said Spitler.

This year’s gala event was different from past years as it was held two weeks earlier and there was no guest speaker. But the purpose remained the same: raise funds for families in the community who are dealing with the devastating illness of cancer.

Guests arrive for the masquerade ball

Julia Moore, gala committee member, briefly addressed those attending. “I speak to many families in this area and what the cancer care does makes a difference in whether they can buy groceries, whether they can make a mortgage payment, pay utility bills and last but not least, whether or not they have enough money to get gas to get to their treatment.

“I am continually amazed at the way the community bonds together and takes care of one another. You do not see this everywhere. We are blessed to live and work in a community where we care so much about one another and we reach out and take care of those that are going through this process.”

The evening concluded with music provided by Sum of 3, allowing many to dance the rest of the night away.