Deck the Halls Event Spreads Cheer for Local Charity

Holiday spirits were in full swing at LACASA's ninth annual Deck the Halls fund-raiser that was recently held at Jim and Pam Ritz's Brighton home.

More than 200 guests sporting festive formal wear were greeted at the door by Christmas carols sung by "Ladies First," a group from the Livingston County Women's Chorus.

Inside, hors' d'ouevres, wine and champagne flowed freely, provided by several generous Brighton restaurants and businesses, including; , , , , and many others.

The Ritz's home was decked out in true holiday extravagance inside and out. Around every corner there seemed to be a glimmering Christmas tree, or a staircase laced with fresh garland and bejeweled ornaments, or a warm fireplace with hanging stockings to cozy up to.

And while the decorations and food were elaborate, the true focus of the night was never lost: Helping those in need.

"We raised around $11,000 in direct donations this year. Through one of the grants that we receive, fifty cents of every dollar will be matched," said development director Julie Smith.

That $11,000 in direct donations doesn't include the money that was raised through ticket sales and through their raffle that offered an array of prizes. Tickets for the raffle were $25 which guaranteed winning guests a package worth at least $800. Past packages have included everything from a one-half carat diamond to hand-painted furniture.

All of the money raised by the event goes directly back into LACASA's programs, Smith said.

"All proceeds from LACASA's Deck the Halls fund-raiser are used for domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse survivor programs and services during the holiday season and throughout the year," Smith said.

LACASA met and surpassed their fund-raising goal of $31,000, which in the context of the current economic climate, is no small feat.

"We feel so grateful for the money that we receive, particularly at a time when everyone is struggling—especially non-profits," Smith said.

The money that is raised during the Deck the Halls event is crucial to day-to-day operations since LACASA doesn't charge for their services, said executive director Bobette Schrandt.

"These events are so important and critical because the donations provide the dollars needed for us to provide the domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault services that we offer," Schrant said

With another successful holiday fund-raiser under their belt, LACASA is already looking forward to next year's 10th annual Deck the Halls.

"We are really excited that next year will be our 10th year having the event. It's just absolutely amazing," Smith said.

LACASA is the only agency in Livingston County to provide shelter and support to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse. For more information please visit lacasa1.org