Detroit, like most, is a city of give and take; but mostly give. In my short 5 months as a Detroiter, I’ve come across some of the most caring movers and shakers motivated by the desire to give back and make change in their city, whether Detroit has always been home or is becoming home. In the season of giving, and the season of galas and fundraisers, here are some of the greatest events in the city this season, benefiting some of the greatest causes.

1. The Charles H. Wright Anniversary Gala: This spectacular event on October 10th featured a journey through the eyes of African American culture and a celebration of the Charles H. Wright Museum’s 50th Anniversary. The event, titled “The Journey” featured a live art installation, a fabulous seated dinner, a noteworthy program, and visits from some highly prominent figures such as Detroit councilman Scott Benson and actor Blair Underwood. You can view photos from the event and learn more about the Wright Museum HERE.
2. The Detroit Repertory Theatre Black Tie Anniversary Awards: This neighborhood theatre established in the 1950s has been producing shows every year ever since and is proud of it. The group celebrated this year’s event on Nov. 21st with gourmet hors d’eouvres, champagne, and a moving keynote speech from lifelong Detroiter Wilson Copeland. After the awards, the theatre’s first show of the season, “Herb the Green Knight” provided light hearted laughs to the crowd. You can find a full schedule for the theatre’s 2015-2016 season HERE.  
3. The BeNeFit – A Playdate to End NF: This event, hosted by Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, was held at Cobo on November 7th. The fight to end Neurofibromatosis is a personal one for the Gilbert family and this year marked the Third BeNeFit gala. With a live and silent auction, a visit from Lebron and a slew of Cleveland Cavaliers, and gourmet food selection fit for a five year old, the event raised over $5 million dollars to support the Children’s Tumor Foundation. You can learn more about how you can support the fight against NF HERE.
4. The St. Vincent de Paul Telethon: For over 130 years St. Vincent de Paul has been providing Human Services support to the greater city of Detroit. On November 24th the organization will hold their 9th annual telethon as their largest fundraiser of the year. With an impressive list of sponsors including Whole Foods Market, The Detroit Red Wings, Quicken Loans, Ford Motor Company, and more, SVdP has done its part to create an alliance to fight the challenges community members in Detroit face every day. Make sure to mark your calendar to watch the telethon and don’t forget to donate HERE.
5. The WALK Fashion Show: Founded in Detroit, the WALK Fashion Show featured 3 separate shows throughout the day, 4o designers, and over 200 models. Started in 2009, the organization now holds shows in its home city of Detroit as well as New York and Atlanta. WALK seeks to bring fashion to the co-founders’ home, but also to break down the barriers in other cities surrounding the Detroit conversation. This year’s show took place Saturday, November 14th, but all you models and designers you can mark your calendars for next year’s casting call  HERE.