First and foremost—thank you, Hidden Lake.

While our neighborhood is known for its beautiful homes, scenic views, and strong sense of community, many don’t realize that Hidden Lake has quietly become one of LACASA’s most generous and impactful circles of supporters.

Over the years, neighbors have stepped forward with sponsorships, auction items, underwriting gifts, volunteer hours, leadership, and extraordinary generosity—helping provide safety, healing, and hope to thousands of children and families across Livingston County.

That spirit was on full display recently when Steve and Kate Lowry—this year’s presenting sponsors—opened their Hidden Lake home for this year’s Gala Host Committee and Sponsor Appreciation Celebration.

As the sun set over the lake, the guest list included Judy and Bert Herzog, Carla O’Malley and Gil Martinez, Mary Pittman, Colleen and Dave Scrivano, Gina and Matt Percy, Terri and Tim Fenelon, David Mannarino, and many other dedicated supporters and partners.

What looked like a neighborhood gathering was, in reality, the launchpad for LACASA’s biggest and most meaningful Gala yet.

Now—let’s talk about the main event.

This year marks LACASA’s 45th anniversary, and we’re not whispering about it—we’re throwing a turbo charged, sapphire-studded celebration.

After 45 years of sheltering survivors, counseling families, and breaking cycles of abuse, it’s time to shine a light exactly where it matters most: on children.

This Year’s Theme: It’s All About the Kids… With Serious Horsepower.

We’re going full throttle.

Think stunning classic cars and high-performance machines from the Lingenfelter Collection and Junkyard Broncos (that custom Bronco build is pure artistry), along with Ford Performance showcasing automotive excellence up close and a personal appearance with their driver!!

Guests will have the opportunity to take photos beside these incredible vehicles—because nothing says unforgettable evening like pairing horsepower with hope.

But this night isn’t really about the cars.

Imagine a little girl sitting in a room at LACASA, bravely telling her story. A prosecutor watches from behind a two-way mirror. When the advocate steps out for just a moment, the child walks to the glass, presses her forehead against it, and through tears whispers:

“Someone has to believe me. Please… they have to believe me.”

That is the reality too many children face before they arrive at LACASA.

The good news is this:

Because of the Hidden Lake community, they don’t face it alone.

They find people who believe them. They find safety. They find healing. They find hope.

The same is true for a young boy who endured unimaginable abuse. When he first took the witness stand, he could not speak. But with his therapy dog, Penny, quietly by his side, he found the courage to testify.

That is why this Gala matters.

Beneath the music, the celebration, and the sparkle lies one purpose: helping children and families find safety, healing, and a path forward.

For 27 years, Kate Lowry has poured her heart into LACASA through board service, fundraising, advocacy, and countless hours behind the scenes. Her passion has always been helping survivors and children find safety, hope, and healing.

When Carla O’Malley first proposed moving from outdoor fundraisers to an indoor Gala, Kate urged everyone to stop overthinking and take the leap—“Rip off the Band-Aid.” That push launched LACASA’s first Gala and a tradition that continues today. From elegant décor to thoughtful details throughout the venue, Kate’s creativity helped shape an unforgettable inaugural event.

At her side every step of the way has been her husband, Steve. Together, Kate and Steve have become two of LACASA’s most loyal and steadfast champions—always ready to help, lead, and do whatever is needed to advance the mission.

This year, we could not be more honored that Kate and Steve have accepted the role of Presenting Sponsors for LACASA’s 45th Anniversary Sapphire Gala. Their leadership, generosity, and unwavering belief in LACASA have helped shape the organization for nearly three decades.

Since joining the Board in 2009, Judy Herzog has been a passionate champion for more than fifteen years. Judy Herzog joined LACASA’s Board in 2009 because of her strong belief that every child deserves to grow up safe, supported, and full of hope. Since then, she has become one of LACASA’s most dedicated advocates. Alongside her husband, she has been extraordinarily generous, but Judy’s greatest gift may be her willingness to ask others to join the cause. She is always the first to raise her hand and ask, “What can I do to help?” From recruiting sponsors to inspiring donors and volunteers, Judy has helped bring countless supporters into the LACASA family—and the organization is stronger because of it.

Judy and Bert have been extraordinarily generous supporters, including serving as presenting sponsors the last two years.  Her professional family at EP Wealth Advisors has also been a longtime Mission Partner of LACASA. This year, EP Wealth Advisors will be recognized as Business of the Year by LACASA, an honor shared with Brighton Ford in recognition of their outstanding commitment to the mission.

LACASA is fortunate that Carla O’Malley made Hidden Lake her home. What began as a friendship with Judy Herzog quickly grew into full mission engagement—and Carla has been all in ever since.

Passionate, relentless, and deeply committed, Carla helped inspire LACASA’s very first Gala and served as its founding chair, transforming an idea into a signature event that continues to grow today.

As Board Vice Chair, major sponsor, and tireless auction champion, she brings both energy and strategy—including the kind of enthusiasm that once sparked a spirited bidding war with her brother over a wooden bench now proudly displayed at LACASA.

But behind the humor is a deeper truth. As a survivor herself, Carla doesn’t just support the mission—she lives it. When she says, “No one believed me as a child,” the room goes still. And then she does what she always does: turns that truth into action, ensuring today’s children are met with belief, protection, and hope.

The Gala Co-Chair alongside Lauren Coffman of Brighton Ford, Mary Pittman is affectionately known in Hidden Lake as “the pet lady”—the one who never passes a dog without a greeting (and usually a treat).

At Christmas, she becomes the unofficial “Santa for Dogs,” making sure every Hidden Lake pup gets a surprise. The dogs now fully expect it.

Through LACASA’s Safe Pet Place program, Mary advocates for survivors who should never have to choose between their own safety and a beloved pet. Thanks in part to Hidden Lake’s support, the canine and feline rooms at LACASA stand as a lasting symbol of that compassion.

And if you’ve attended the LACASA Gala before, you know one of the most anticipated moments: the jewelry raffle. Last year, Hidden Lake’s Cindy Gutowski won a stunning amethyst necklace—one of those unforgettable “I can’t believe I won this” moments that adds sparkle to the evening.

This year’s Sapphire Soirée promises to be one of the most exciting Galas yet:

And with Hyatt Place right next door in the same building… it’s easy to turn the night into a fun overnight getaway.

Yes, it’s an incredible evening—great food, music, auctions, cars, and celebration. You’ll reconnect with friends, meet new ones, and dance the night away. But you’ll also leave knowing you helped change a child’s future.

So here’s the challenge to Hidden Lake:

Don’t just buy a ticket. Fill a table.

Call your neighbors, text your friends, and reach out to the people you gather with on summer evenings—those in other neighborhoods, on the golf course, or at the Quarry Club. Bring ten people together and make it a night that matters.

At $1,750 per table, it’s more than a reservation—it’s a statement that children in our community matter. It’s ten people choosing to become part of the solution.

Tickets are $175. Tables of ten are $1,750. Sponsorships, underwriting opportunities, and donations of any size are deeply appreciated.

The truth is simple: the more tables we fill, the more children we can help.

Hidden Lake has always shown up when it matters most.

Let’s do it again.

Let’s pack the room. Let’s celebrate 45 years of impact. Let’s show Livingston County what happens when neighbors come together for something bigger than themselves.

Scan the code or visit https://lacasacenter.org/gala-2026-sponsorships/ to reserve your spot today.

Thank you, Hidden Lake.

Your generosity changes lives.

Because you said yes, somewhere in Livingston County, a child will sleep more safely tonight.

We’ll see you on the dance floor Friday, October 23.