Crisp October winds mean Gala season is nearby. Whether you want to attend a Gala in your best fancy outfit, or in jeans – here are two very different choices.

If you haven’t guessed it yet, it’s KD Gala that is the casual event. Happening at Golden Years Society from noon to 5 p.m., the event is Centre of Hope, local daytime homeless shelter’s fundraiser for the United Way of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo’s community campaign. Tickets are $25/person and can be purchased through the Mac Calendar.

“This is the 16th annual KD Gala in support of the United Way. The United Way supports the Centre of Hope’s (initiatives like the) drop-in programs, intake, and outreach. KD Gala has had several themes over the years. This year we decided to go with the grassroots of the Gala, ‘No Glitz, No Glam,’ as we support humans in need that do not have the luxury of attending events, because they are wondering where their next meal or bed will be,” explains Tracy Shulko, Fund Development and Communication Coordinator for the Centre.

“KD Gala was started as a way to give back to the United Way, but also to bring awareness to those most vulnerable in our community. This year’s guest speaker is someone who overcame addiction and couch-surfing and is now putting in as much effort to go to work everyday as they did with their addiction. Local artist Danny Tulk will serenade the afternoon away; attendees can purchase delectable baked goods, 50/50 tickets, silent auction and of course the main event is the Kraft Dinner.”

Six local chefs will create their version of macaroni and cheese for over 100 guests. Plus, guests also get to vote for their favourite creation.

“Our chefs are: Surekha’s on the Snye, Jennifer Sandmoen, Bear and Buffalo Restaurant, Jessica King, Avenue Eatery & Café, and Smokin Butcher. We’d like to thank our chefs and local bakers. Centre of Hope is truly blessed to have our community come together, show support for two great non-profit organizations, United Way and Centre of Hope. Without this support it would be very difficult to care for our most vulnerable population within the Wood Buffalo region.”

“Centre of Hope is always seeking donations and funding all year around, so when we do have an event, it is a way to give back to our community and say thank you for your support, kindness, and generosity,” adds Shulko.

Generosity is also the leitmotif for Keyano’s 41^st Gala. Returning for the first time after the COVID pandemic, the highly anticipated soiree will be hosted at the College’s Sport & Wellness Centre. Doors open at 7 p.m. Stunning décor, delectable food, and live entertainment are only some of the memorable highlights of the event. You really don’t want to miss this ultimate socializing and networking opportunity.

“We are very excited to bring Gala back this year with a classic black-tie theme, signifying a return to our fundraising roots. I am particularly enthusiastic about our artists this year, a classic band with many accolades: Loverboy – and a 2020 JUNO Award winner and nominee for Indigenous Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year at the 2020 Western Canadian Music Awards – Celeigh Cardinal. We have seen tremendous support from local donors and tickets are now on sale to the community – by purchasing a ticket to the Gala, Wood Buffalo residents are showing the community their commitment to enhancing the lives of students, who are on the way to becoming the leaders of tomorrow and we truly appreciate that,” notes Keyano’s Chantal Beaver, Director, Continuing Education and Advancement.

Tickets for the event can be purchased here. Visit keyano.ca/gala for additional information.