Transparency
By Tre Keys, FNRC Public Information Officer
The Arc of Butte County recently hosted its highly anticipated Boots & Bling Annual Dinner Fundraiser on November 9th, an event filled with fun, games, and community spirit in support of their essential programs for individuals with disabilities. The event marked a significant milestone as the organization’s 25th annual dinner and brought together the local community for a memorable evening.
Upon arrival, guests checked in at the front door and were provided with bags containing fake money for saloon games and paddles with assigned numbers for the silent auction. Each attendee was welcomed with tickets for complimentary happy hour drinks and assigned to festively decorated tables featuring western-themed decor, including boot-shaped mugs and centerpieces with flowers and sheriff badges.
The evening kicked off with appetizers and a variety of happy hour beverages, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy the ambiance. Attendees savored mini pork tacos served by staff as they explored the event space, which included an outdoor tent adorned with tall space heaters to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The tent area also featured saloon games, tables filled with raffle and silent auction items, and a small stage where local musician Tyler Devoll performed live music, adding to the festive mood.
“The goal this year was to create an engaging and inclusive event that highlights the incredible work we do,” shared Brooke Jeffers, Event and Community Outreach Coordinator for The Arc of Butte County. “We wanted attendees to leave with not only great memories but also a deeper understanding of our mission.”
Guests had the opportunity to tour The Arc’s facilities prior to the dinner, led by knowledgeable Arc employees who provided insights into the wide range of programs the organization offers. As part of their mission to enhance community understanding, these tours allowed attendees to see firsthand how The Arc supports individuals with disabilities.
Dinner, catered by Chicobi’s Mobile Catering, was served buffet-style with options that included roasted potatoes, fresh salads, and a choice between campfire grilled chicken with house BBQ sauce or Wild West eggplant parmesan. As guests settled in for the meal, the tables buzzed with conversation and laughter, highlighting the sense of community that the event fostered.
Following dinner, Arc staff members and members of the Board of Directors took the stage for a heartfelt presentation. Guests watched a video highlighting the organization’s achievements, followed by a moving moment where Arc members walked around with boots, collecting donations to support ongoing programs. As Brooke Jeffers emphasized, “It’s not just about raising funds; it’s about spreading awareness of the impactful work we do.”
To cap off the meal, guests were treated to an assortment of mini pies served at their tables courtesy of HelenGrace Homemade Pastries, with choices including mixed berry, apricot, and peach.
The night concluded with more rounds of saloon games, the announcement of silent auction and raffle winners, and a final opportunity for guests to enjoy the western-themed festivities.
The funds raised from this year’s event will go directly toward supporting The Arc’s various programs, from day services to independent living skills development. “The community’s support through events like this ensures we can continue to enrich the lives of those we serve,” noted Jeffers.
Looking ahead, The Arc hopes to expand this annual event to accommodate even more attendees. “We’re thrilled with this year’s turnout and hope to eventually grow beyond our current venue. The more people we can bring in, the more we can do to support our mission,” added Jeffers.
With the success of this year’s Boots & Bling fundraiser, The Arc of Butte County is poised to continue its mission of empowering individuals with disabilities, one event at a time. The Annual Community Holiday Carol Sing-a-Long is approaching on December 12th, 5:30 pm – 7 pm in the Arc of Butte County Parking Lot. Click the link below for more information.
https://arcbutte.org/event/join-us-for-the-annual-community-holiday-carol-sing-a-long/