The Elders team at Griffith have planned and hosted the ‘most significant fundraising event, ever’ for Angel Flight.
Photo: The Elders Griffith branch members presenting a cheque of $63,955 to Angel Flight CEO Marjorie Pagani and Chairman Dr Owen Crees.
250 people attended the sell out event on Saturday night, which was held by Elders Griffith in support of Angel Flight.
Angel Flight coordinates non-emergency flights for people in rural areas who may be struggling with poor health. Flights are free and can transport patients to medical facilities anywhere in Australia.
The charity was selected by the branch after Sales Support Officer Mikayla O’Neill needed to use Angel Flight 18 months ago, when her baby daughter became unwell. The team at Griffith, led by branch manager Ray Ellis, were keen to give back to Angel Flight through this event.
“It was quite fitting to support Angel Flight, to give back to that charity which helped Mikayla and so many others in our region,” Ray said.
“From day one, everyone in the branch jumped on board straight away. I am very humbled and honoured to be part of a great team that wanted to create such an event.”
Attendees at the gala dinner were treated to entertainment from Wagga Wagga comedian, Dane Simpson; music by band, Venus; a raffle; and a charity auction. 16 auction items were sold, kindly donated by sponsors and members of the community, totalling over $30,000. Organising the event was no small feat, with the branch commencing planning almost six months ago.
“The evening was really well received, and the feedback has been great. I really couldn’t be happier with how the night has been run,” Ray said.
“I am so proud of what our branch has been able to achieve pulling this together, we’re already looking forward to next years event.”
Angel Flight chief executive Marjorie Pagani, who was in attendance, was delighted with the end result – almost $64,000 raised.
“It is a tremendous credit to the team at Elders for pulling this off, we could not have imagined that this much money could be raised at such a fantastic night,” Marjorie said.
“These kinds of funds will unlock hundreds and hundreds of free flights for people in this region, who require medical treatment.
“Our communities, and Elders communities, will be so grateful for this help and support. I know we certainly are. The more donations we get, the more passengers we can carry.
“We are sincerely thankful for what was the most significant fundraising event for our charity, ever.”
Elders Griffith thanks the sponsors of the event, who made the evening possible.
To find out more about Angel Flight, head to their website.