Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio move Gala from in-person to virtual Un-Gala

The annual Gala to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio is going virtual due to ongoing concerns and precautions related to COVID-19.

This year’s event will be held on Thursday, November 19th and will allow community supporters to enjoy all the Un-Gala has to offer from the comfort of their own homes.

The event will include an Art Show with submissions from local matches. Matches are working with local artists to create special and unique items for the event. Guests will have the opportunity to vote on their favorites and even bid on the items they want to take home.

“We are proud to still be delivering services and to be keeping kids connected throughout quarantine and the ongoing uncertainties this year has handed us,” said BBBS CEO Beverly Pearch. “This event is crucial to continuing that work without disruption.”

The Un-Gala will include engaging segments featuring local acts from musicians and other entertainers as well as a special program that will be hosted by Jan McInturf. Guests can also choose to participate in the group ticket option, which will allow them to host their own private Un-Gala at home. The package includes an appetizer spread from Bensons that serves 10. Anyone interested in hosting a watch party is encouraged to contact BBBS with any questions.

The traditional silent auction will remain. Items will go live for browsing and bidding on Thursday, November 12th allowing even more time for guests to watch their favorite baskets and knock out some holiday shopping while supporting a great cause. This year’s event features a special mobile bidding platform that will notify bidders when they’ve ben outbid to give them the best chance to score their favorite baskets.

Registration for access to the silent auction packages is free.

Additional program features include mission moments with featured matches, a first look into BBBS’s new giving program, and more.

This year’s fundraising goal is $40,000. Those planning to participate are encouraged to register early to ensure they receive all of the event updates from BBBS. Baskets are also still being collected for the silent auction for those interested in donating.