The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary of Austin hosted its 5th Annual Spring Garden Party of Tablescapes and Style Show on May 1 at the Fairmont Hotel, welcoming more than 500 guests and raising over $200,000. In honor of its fifth year of celebrating compassionate giving, the event embraced the theme “Compassion No 5, The Fragrance of Giving”.
Attendees enjoyed tablescapes designed by 40 of Austin's premier designers and artists, transforming the ballroom into a luxury gallery of inspired table designs. The afternoon also featured a fashion runway show sponsored by Austin’s The Garden Room.
Funds raised at the event support families working their way out of homelessness and poverty through The Salvation Army Rathgeber Center for Families, named after its benefactors, Dick and Sarah Rathgeber.
The Rathgeber Center maintains an 88% success rate, defined by families securing employment, stabilizing finances, completing counseling, and moving into independent permanent housing. Each family works with a dedicated Case Manager who guides them through tailored support in education, health, and financial stability over 6–18 months. After exiting, families continue to receive resources for up to two years, helping sustain long‑term independence.
The Women's Auxiliary of Austin was chartered six years ago under the direction of Major Jacqulyn Reckline, Area Commander, and thrives under the leadership of Linda Dryden, President.
To support the Salvation Army, visit salvationarmyaustin.org.
