Salvation Army Holds First Black & White Ball

The fundraiser featured a wine pull and silent auction

DULUTH, Minn. — Thursday, the Duluth Salvation Army hosted its first-ever Black and White Ball fundraiser at the Clyde Malting Building.

The event not only had dinner, drinks, and dancing, but several opportunities to raise money for the Salvation Army. There was a wine pull and silent auction, featuring Minnesota sports memorabilia and lots of goodies from local businesses. It replaced the organization’s luncheon fundraiser.

“It was getting a little bit tired, attendance was down, donations were down,” said Director of Development Cyndi Lewis. “I said, ‘do we have to keep doing this?’ and they’re like ‘no, what do you want to do?’ and I’m like ‘let’s dress up!’ cause that’s kinda my thing. There’re a lot of other nonprofits that do this sort of event and I was like ‘why don’t we try something different, that’s a little more fun-centered than presentation-centered and see what happens?'”

The Ball is a part of National Salvation Army Week. Organizers say it’s a way to get people thinking about the organization beyond just the holiday season. Plus, have a little fun while doing it.