The number 13 gets a bad rap, but it proved auspicious last month when the 13th annual Home Safe Home Gala raised more than $540,000 for AVDA, the nonprofit working to end domestic violence in Harris and Fort Bend counties. The event takes place every October in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
The influx of funds will help AVDA continue its essential programing, including advocacy, safety planning, counseling and free legal representation for more than 100,000 survivors of abuse. AVDA also runs the largest Battering Intervention and Prevention Program for abusers in Texas to reach youth and break the cycle of violence.
More than 500 guests showed up to support the cause on October 17, when the Revaire’s 4,000-square-foot gallery space was filled with white roses, hydrangeas, and tulips. But the stars of the show were 12 prominent chefs and their creations: Daniel Berg of Carmelo’s, Ryan Bouillet of A Fare Extraordinaire, Joe Cervantez of Brennan’s, David Denis of Le Mistral, Giancarlo Ferrara of Amalfi Ristorante Italiano & Bar, Elliott Kelley of Café Annie, Dominick Lee of Poitín, Rafael Morales of Grace’s, Kevin Naderi of Roost, Peter Petro of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, Russel Roegels of Roegels Barbecue Co., and Dustin Teague of Relish. Wine pairings were selected by sommeliers Sean Beck, David Keck, Antonio Gianola, and Cat Nguyen.
Khambrel Marshall served as master of ceremonies, and Carla Diaz-Lewis and Kenneth Lewis and Dr. Larry and Bonnie Likover chaired. A short program saw the presentation of two awards: the Joseph D. Jamail Award for Justice to Lynn Kamin, a family law attorney, former AVDA board chair, and longtime supporter—this is the second consecutive year Kamin has received this award; and AVDA’s Heart of Houston Award to Cyndy Garza Roberts, described as a tireless advocate for women in business and the local community.
Notable names showed up to support the cause, including past AVDA award winners, judges, constables, DA Kim Ogg, and more.
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