This year's Empowering the Future Gala was a true testament to what we can achieve together. With a room full of passionate advocates, inspiring honorees, and dedicated supporters, we saw the power of unity and unwavering commitment to social justice.
We raised over $210,000 to fuel our mission to eliminate racism and empower women, and celebrated the strength of our community through powerful stories, inspiring music, and even some joyful dancing!
Honoring Leaders Who Inspire Change
One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing two extraordinary individuals for their contributions to our community. Deidre Farrell was honored with the Janet Beardsley Award of Excellence, celebrating her dedication and leadership in advancing our mission. Additionally, Marta Loachamin was awarded the newly named "Mark Bouzek" Community Impact Maker Award, recognizing her outstanding efforts in creating positive change. Their stories and work continue to inspire us all. Read more about Deidre and Marta.
A Night of Music, Celebration, and Generosity
Guests were treated to an uplifting performance by the incredibly talented Virgi Dart, whose music added a soul-stirring touch to the evening. Excitement filled the room as attendees bid generously in the paddle raiser auction to support YWCA’s mission. With an incredible show of support from our community, we proudly raised over $210,000, ensuring the continuation and expansion of our vital programs.
Moving Forward with Purpose
The generosity and enthusiasm displayed at the Gala reaffirm our shared commitment to eliminating racism and empowering women. This momentum fuels our work, reminding us that together, we can drive meaningful change and create a more just and equitable society.
To all who attended, donated, and supported this event—thank you. Your contributions make a difference, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you. Until next year, let’s keep empowering the future—together!
Thank you to our 2025 Gala Sponsors!
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
In-Kind Sponsors
Wood's High Mountain Distillery
Become a Sponsor! As our partner, you will receive:
Colorado Child Care Tax Credit for a lower net cost to you
Event benefits include tickets, brand promotion to our supporters, and more
Sponsorships can be purchased for our Gala or Luncheon HERE. If you have questions, please contact Susan Hirano at shirano@ywcaboulder.org .
FAQ↘
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200+ guests and community partners
Upscale weekend evening event for a fun night out while raising funds for YWCA Boulder County’s programs
Honors awardees for their work in our community
Performances by local artists
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Get ready for the fun part of the event! Auctioneer Debbie Scheer will take us through different donation levels and guests will "raise their paddles" to contribute money.
Your paddle raiser donation is eligible for the Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit, which can significantly lower the net cost of your donation.
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We invite you to dress to feel your best with the suggestion of "cocktail chic" attire for the evening.
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When you purchased your table, you should have automatically received two emails - an email receipt and an email with a link to update your guests' info. Find this second email and forward it to your guests so they can enter their info to receive important pre-event info and instructions.
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On Saturday, you will receive a Welcome Text with your personalized donation link (do not share this). Click the link and you will be directed to our mobile donation site. During the Live Event, you will see a green "Give Live" button appear, which you'll use for the Paddle Raiser.
If you did not receive a Welcome Text, text ywcaboulder (one word, no capital letters) to 56651 and you will receive the link to the mobile donation site.
All registered guests will get a unique, personal link to give. Do not share this link with anyone because it will be tied to your credit card.
Donate with a Credit Card
Click your donation link and at the top of the mobile donation page you will see an option to "Enter your Credit Card".
Enter your credit card information
At the end of the night, click the red "Pay" button at the top to have your card charged.
Donate by Check or Another Method
Click your donation link
Select the Paddle Raiser item and make your gift
Do not enter a credit card
Do NOT click the "Pay" button at the end of the night and a YWCA staff person will follow-up with you.
To Pay by Check: You can send your gift to: YWCA Boulder County, 2222 14th St., Boulder, CO 80302.
Need help? If you need assistance, please call or text Bolder Events at 301-938-3953.
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Underground parking at the Embassy Suites is available for the evening. Once you drive down into the parking garage, drive all the way to the back to be closest to the west elevators.
Parking will be discounted for attendees.
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Your health and safety is our highest priority. If you are feeling ill, please stay home and we hope you recover quickly.
Dinner will be served plated, rather than as a buffet.