Evolving During a Pandemic - An Interview w/ HealthStart's Events Chair

When the COVID-19 pandemic caused drastic changes to everyday life, many organizations were faced with the imperative need to evolve. Though this has been an unprecedented time, the dedicated Events Committee of HealthStart Foundation has risen to the challenge.

The organization will be hosting the Cooking 4 Kids Virtual Gala on September 17th at 7 PM CST. The event will include a virtual happy hour, silent auction, and a virtual cooking demonstration led by award-winning Chef Bobo of the Calhoun School in New York City. ​

Katie Kahn, Events Committee Chair, believes that having a virtual gala creates unique opportunities for HealthStart. “It was a heavily weighted decision to have a virtual gala, but I knew it was not only the responsible decision, but one that gave us a unique opportunity to reach new individuals, companies, and other organizations outside of the Austin area. In hosting a virtual gala, non-Austinites can easily attend and support HealthStart’s critical work,” said Kahn.
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HealthStart’s Events Committee has worked hard to make this a one of a kind event that is not to be missed. Throughout the planning process, they have been creative and enthusiastic problem solvers. “We have had to think differently about how to raise money and broaden our reach to continue to make a positive impact on the community during such a challenging time. Additionally, the events committee has really had to come together to reimagine what this year’s gala would look like. This is our first virtual event, so initially, we had to do quite a bit of research to figure out what our approach would be for HealthStart. I am so proud of everyone on the events committee because each person has worked really hard to make this year’s event a success.”
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The efforts of the Events Committee have definitely paid off. They have worked hard connecting with businesses and friends to inform them about the importance of HealthStart’s mission and the exciting opportunities the virtual gala has to offer. HealthStart has received a generous and positive response from the community in Austin and around the country. The virtual nature of this event is creating a space to reach beyond the borders of Central Texas. “My hope is that attendees from far and wide fully understand the importance of HealthStart and consider how the foundation can benefit their own communities. I would love to gain new partnerships and re-energize our current supporters,” said Kahn. ​
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This is truly an exciting and unique event. Many people, including Kahn, are looking forward to the event. “I am most excited about connecting everyone who has been so supportive of HealthStart at our virtual event. I am also very excited about watching our headliner, Chef Bobo Surles, in the kitchen! He has been at the forefront of healthy school lunch programs, so watching the expert will be a real treat for everyone who attends. I encourage everyone to visit www.bit.ly/C4KGala to learn more about HealthStart, donate to our cause, and register for our Cooking 4 Kids Virtual Gala.”

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