Spirit of Taos: A one-of-a-kind fundraising event

by Laura Ingrim

Wilkinson Center’s annual fundraising event, Spirit of Taos, is coming up on October 14th. This unique event is a southwestern-theme soiree consisting of dinner, dancing, lively music, and auctions and has become a can’t-miss gala in Dallas. But how did this one-of-a-kind event with such a distinctive theme get started?
Wilkinson Center was founded in 1982 and from the beginning, volunteers have been a vital part of the organization. In 2003, a passionate group of volunteers formed an auxiliary to further support Wilkinson Center’s programs and mission. This auxiliary, later named the Friends of Wilkinson Center, has become our most steadfast support in the community.

From the beginning, the Friends of Wilkinson Center have assisted the organization in multiple areas. Members volunteer at events and within the Food Pantry and Adult Education classes. They advocate for Wilkinson Center in the community and help spread the word about our work. And the Friends of Wilkinson Center are instrumental in our fundraising efforts.

Over the years, the Friends of Wilkinson Center have organized a number of different fundraising events, including the Tinsel & Dreams and the Shaken Not Stirred galas. Then about 10 years ago, a few members of the Friends were on a vacation together to Taos, New Mexico, and it is here that inspiration struck.
Dazzled by the beautiful setting and relaxed southwestern vibe, the Friends thought that the charm of Taos would make an excellent theme for their annual gala in support of Wilkinson Center. In the fall of 2014, the Friends hosted their first Spirit of Taos, a unique event that captures the rustic elegance and optimistic spirit of the southwest. Over the years, the event has grown and become a highlight of the nonprofit calendar in Dallas.

This year marks the 9th annual Spirit of Taos, which will be held on Friday, October 14th at On The Levee. Chairs Shannon Hanberry and Ashley White, along with Ellen Estee, president of the Friends of Wilkinson Center, invite you to this incredible party for a cause. Enjoy a sit-down dinner, drinks, music by the Jimmy Stadler Band, live and silent auctions, and our energetic emcee, Jenny Anchondo, in an unforgettable night of fun and philanthropy.

Tickets and tables are available (until we sell out!) at https://bit.ly/SpiritofTaosEvent. We look forward to seeing you there!