Jennasis & Associates Event Planning Team Sparkles at NEOPAT Annual Gala

March started off with a bang, as Jennasis & Associates helped host the 8th Annual Gala for The Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism (NEOPAT). Jennasis & Associates planned a lively, heartfelt night, glittering from floor to ceiling in red, white, and blue. More than 600 attendees joined Jack Newman, the Executive Director of NEOPAT, for an evening that unveiled the testimonies, triumphs and tears from the families NEOPAT was able to support over the past year.

Jennasis team members were in their element, showcasing the talent of our team as well as many incredible volunteers for an unforgettable evening. Gesture, a Mobile Bidding and Auction Software company, assisted in the precision planning of the event, allowing easy management of the raffle and silent auction. Stepping into a new era of event planning, the technology provided through this partnership with Gesture allowed the Jennasis team to run the program smoothly and successfully. Guests were able to enjoy the night honoring the men and women who safeguard our nation and their families.

NEOPAT’s Annual Gala has been carried out for the last six years by Jennasis & Associates. While each year was a great success, 2018 proved to be the best year yet - raising the most donations NEOPAT has ever seen! Something in the event planning seemed to have a struck a chord with donors to give generously this year. Whether the trick was in the entertainment from DJ Nick Duve, the fantastic three-course meal, the elegant table settings draped in white and silver, the 5-foot wall of glittering donuts, or the open bar, the night was executed without a hitch - leaving an unforgettable impact for this year’s gala.

If the look and feel of the black-tie event wasn’t enough, the seamless program coordinated down to the minute by the Jennasis team was heartfelt and touching. During the 2018 Gala, The Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism was able to honor multiple veterans and their families throughout the evening. Nicholaus Zimmer died in combat and his parents were generous enough to share his story, as well as their own. They were also able to accept a donation on behalf of Ohio Flags of Freedom from NEOPAT. In addition to the Zimmer Family, Ron Potter was also honored. As part of the program, Potter, a Marine Veteran, was decorated with a Purple Heart for his sacrifice during his time in the service. Family and fellow veterans were present and able to participate in the ceremony.

While the Jennasis team and partners may have been behind the achievements of the elegant event, the real shining star of the evening (and the rest of the year) is the Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism, and all the work they do for military members and their families. Showing guests what their support and donations are working towards is one of the key parts to presenting NEOPAT as a leader in Ohio’s military support organizations.

Jacquelyn Brown is a marketing designer residing in Cleveland, Ohio. If she is not creating digital material, she is exploring the outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and traveling. Any chance to bring along her dog or family is even better.