OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY – Wendell Foster, a local non-profit agency serving people with disabilities, will host its annual gala and auction on Saturday, September 30 at 6:00 pm at the Owensboro Convention Center. The title of this year’s event, the “Forever a Difference Maker Gala & Auction,” honors the hundreds of employees, volunteers, and supporters the organization refers to as “Difference Makers.” This inspiring night of generosity will include complimentary wine and beer, a sit-down dinner, and music from DJ Yondell. The evening will also feature emcee Chad Benefield of 92.5 WBKR – The Country Station! and auctioneer Joseph Mills of Kurtz Auction & Realty.

Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline is joining the event as this year’s Presenting Sponsor. “Wendell Foster is a pillar in our community championing people with disabilities,” said Shawn Patterson, President & CEO of Southern Star. “Our company is honored to be the Presenting Sponsor for the upcoming Gala benefitting the people Wendell Foster serves.”

The annual gala and auction is Wendell Foster’s primary fundraiser of the year. In 2022, the event raised over $160,000 through generous bids, sponsorships, ticket purchases, and donations from gala attendees. Guests will have the chance to bid on exciting live and silent auction items, such as rare bourbon, curated travel experiences, sports memorabilia, and tickets to popular attractions.

Kara Howard, Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at Wendell Foster, expressed her enthusiasm at the return of the event. “We are excited about this year’s fundraiser as it transitions to a formal Gala, yet still includes the silent and live auction components we enjoy!” Howard said. “All are welcome to join us in this evening of fun and generosity as we honor our Difference Makers and their impact on those we serve.”

Visit the gala website, one.bidpal.net/wfgala23, to purchase tickets, preview auction items, or make a donation. For additional information, please call 270-683-4517. On the night of the event, bring your smartphones to participate in bidding via the online platform OneCause.