2019 Gala-Lotta Raises the Roof for Running Rebels

September 27, 2019

The 2019 Gala-lotta, Care-a-lotta's annual signature program, was held on Thursday, September 26, at the Italian Community Center. This year's Gala-lotta recipient, Running Rebels, works toward a vision to provide positive choices for youth who face the daily pressures of delinquency, drug abuse, truancy, and teen pregnancy.

The event was a huge success for Running Rebels, raising over $400,000 and enabling them to secure a $500,000 matching grant from the Zilber Family Foundation. The total amount of money raised also allowed Running Rebels to complete its Full Circle Campaign, which has been focused on growing and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Running Rebels.

Upon arrival, guests enjoyed cocktails and passed appetizers while taking part in a raffle and fun games for a wide variety of prizes. The reception was followed by a three-course dinner in the Grand Ballroom, after which a full program was provided, including a special speaking appearance by Marques Johnson, legendary Milwaukee Bucks basketball player.

As the recipient of Care-a-lotta’s annual all-expense-paid gala, all money brought in from the event went directly to the Running Rebels organization. All food and drinks were provided by Bartolotta Catering & Events at the Italian Community Center, along with a host of volunteers from Bartolottas to provide service for the evening.

Care-a-lotta is already working on the 2020 Gala-lotta, which will benefit Courage MKE, an organization that fuels a collaborative movement to provide the housing, resources, and services that displaced and homeless LGBTQ youth in Milwaukee need to thrive, as well as scholarships and other services for the LGBT youth of our community.

For more information about Care-a-lotta visit bartolottas.com/about/care-a-lotta.