The engines were roaring at this year’s YWCA Believe Party as we came together to “Fuel Hope, Drive Change.”
Board President Becky Kettner opened the evening by sharing how meeting a survivor at a previous Believe Party inspired her to go “all in” on the YWCA mission, setting the tone for an evening focused on empowerment and action.
Anne-Marie Zell Schwerin, YWCA Executive Director, continued the momentum with opening remarks that echoed the event’s “motor” theme. She emphasized how something as simple as transportation can be a powerful tool for survivor independence. Pointing out that abusers often use the lack of access to a car as a weapon of control, she applauded our donors for “putting survivors in the driver’s seat” through their support of YWCA’s critical services.
The Believe Party’s live auction, led by dynamic auctioneer Derek Wood and MC Jim Wilson, both gentlemen who shared their personal reasons for supporting the YWCA cause, shifted into high gear as an anonymous donor pledged to match several auction packages, as well as the first $11,000 of “Heartstrings” donations.
Guests enjoyed food by local chef Marty Bray, while the Motor Co’s newly air conditioned space and large presentation screens kept guests comfortable and helped convey the event’s message. One screen featured a revolving slideshow of survivor quotes and the impact of donor gifts in 2023, while the other played video testimonials and highlighted live auction packages.
Thanks to your generosity, we crossed the finish line, meeting our fall fundraising goal of $82,000. Together, we are fueling hope and driving change for survivors in our community.
Dinner by A Chef’s Creation • 2 drinks • Silent Auction packages • Live Auction with one-of-a-kind experiences • Wine & Dine Wall
Your mission: Making a difference.
The annual YWCA Believe party gathers some of our closest supporters to celebrate all we can make happen when we work together for women and families. Your compassionate support puts domestic violence survivors in the drivers seat.
Along the way we enjoy good company, good food, and good wine in one of Walla Walla’s most exciting venues, The Motor Co!
Silent and Live Auctions with unforgettable experiences and the Wine & Dine Wall truly put the fun in fundraising!