Wendell Foster will host its annual Forever a Difference Maker Gala and Auction on Sept. 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Owensboro Convention Center.
The nonprofit, which provides services for people with disabilities, said the evening will include live and silent auctions, complimentary wine and beer, and a sit-down dinner. Eyewitness News Meteorologist Ron Rhodes and former Eyewitness News Anchor Jake Boswell will return as emcees, along with auctioneer Joseph Mills of Kurtz Auction & Realty.
Amvets Post 75 is serving as this year’s Presenting Sponsor. Kara Howard, Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at Wendell Foster, said,
“Amvets Post 75 has been a longtime supporter of our Gala & Auction for many years. The work they do in our community with veterans and their families cannot be understated, and we are honored that they also have a passion for our mission of empowering people with disabilities. Wendell Foster is so grateful for their support as Presenting Sponsor of this event,” said Kara Howard, VP of development and community engagement.
Howard said the gala and auction serve as Wendell Foster’s primary fundraiser of the year. In 2024, the event raised a record-breaking amount of more than $229,000 through bids, sponsorships, ticket purchases, and donations. Those funds help support the 69,000 services Wendell Foster provides annually to children and adults with disabilities.
Howard added that the 2025 gala aims to build on that momentum.
“We were thrilled that last year’s gala and auction were such a big success,” Howard said. “This event is a beloved tradition here at Wendell Foster, and we are looking forward to another night of fun and giving. We are also excited for our attendees to hear the impactful story of the Russelburg family, and how their lives have been shaped by the services Wendell Foster provides.”
Guests this year will have the chance to bid on items including rare bourbon, curated travel experiences, and tickets to popular attractions. The evening will also highlight the Russelburg family of Owensboro as the gala’s “Featured Family.” Morgan and Tristan Russelburg have two sons who attend outpatient therapy services at Wendell Foster and will share their story during the event.
Tickets, auction previews, and donation options are available at wfgala25. For more information, call 270-683-4517. Attendees are encouraged to bring smartphones to bid through the online platform OneCause.
