BELLEVILLE – More than 300 people gathered at the Four Points Sheraton in Fairview Heights recently to attend Caritas Family Solutions’ 7th Annual Heart & Soul Gala. This was the most successful gala ever for the organization. More than $195,000 will go to support the nonprofit’s mission of strengthening the social and emotional well-being of individuals and families by creating healthy relationships, loving homes and strong communities.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Caritas Family Solutions’ CEO, Gary Huelsmann, said the goal of this year’s event was to raise awareness about the agency’s full scope of services, which include pregnancy care for women who are homeless, adoption, foster care, counseling and independent living for adults with disabilities.

Article continues after sponsor message

“The goal of our program this year was to show people the numbers, but also help them understand the difference they can make on an individual’s life,” said Huelsmann. “We wanted them to know that we serve more than 4,500 people each year through our programming while at the same time giving them a greater understanding of how our services impact the life of a child in foster care or mentally disabled person. We couldn’t accomplish all that we do without the community’s support and we’re very thankful for that.”

This year’s Heart & Soul Gala included cocktails and silent and live auction bidding, followed by a three-course dinner complete with wine service. The Honorary Chairs of this year’s event were longtime supporters Kevin and Debra Bastien. This year’s Presenting Sponsor was the locally-based company, Performance Roofing Inc. KSDK’s 5 on Your Side Morning News Anchor Rene Knott served as the Master of Ceremonies. Musical entertainment was provided by Brock Elmore with Let’s Celebrate DJ’s.

Caritas Family Solutions Annual Heart & Soul Gala took place on Saturday, February 8at 6 p.m. at the Four Points Sheraton in Fairview Heights.

--

More like this:

Caritas Family Solutions Raises Over $265,000 at the 12th Annual Heart & Soul Gala
Feb 20, 2025
Caritas Family Solutions Plans 12th Annual Heart & Soul Gala In O'Fallon
Feb 3, 2025
Bishop Paprocki: Pope Francis Was A ‘Witness of Love’  
5 days ago
McGivney Community Gathers With Love In Candlelight Vigil For Beloved Coach Brandon Ahring
4 days ago
2025 Women of Distinction: Megan Tyler Supports Community Through Mental Health Help
Feb 27, 2025