Over two thousand distinguished guests gathered at the Palmer Events Center for one of the largest celebrations of the year, the Helping Hand Society of Austin’s 82nd annual gala, The Crystal Ball. Chaired by Meredith Bagan and Taylor Harper, the event featured a full day of festivities, beginning with a champagne brunch and the presentation of the ball’s First Grade Princesses, an introduction of the Helping Hand Girls (9th graders) and the college-aged Debutantes.
Guests reconvened for the event’s hallmark black-tie Debutante Presentation Gala where 9th grade Helping Hand Boys and Girls are also presented. Excitement permeated the Event Center as thousands of guests reunited with old friends and prepared for more festivities to come. After a spirited cocktail hour, guests were treated to a delicious meal as the 9th Grade Helping Hand Boys and Girls were presented one by one, followed by the presentation of Debutantes, their Escorts and Junior Escorts. Following the presentation, guests of all ages danced the night away to the music of Love & Happiness.
Funds from the evening benefit Helping Hand Home for Children. For more than 130 years, Helping Hand Home has served children who have experienced complex trauma. Through a continuum of care, Helping Hand Home provides a safe haven for children to heal through three program areas, including foster, adoption, post-adopt services; 24-hour residential and therapeutic care; and an onsite University of Texas Charter School. To learn more about Helping Hand Home, visit www.helpinghandhome.org.
Photos by Jetter Photography
