Delta Theta Tau Gala Proceeds Top $1 Million for OE Since 1993

OE-Bill-and-LanieThe 20th Annual Denim and Diamonds Gala hosted by Delta Theta Tau to benefit Opportunity Enterprises was held on Friday, March 9, 2012 in the Valparaiso University Harre Union Ballroom, and raised just over $75,000. Since the first Gala held in 1993, the event has raised over $1 million to support OE’s programs and services.

Delta Theta Tau Sorority began its commitment to the developmentally disabled in Porter County in 1957. Deltas, parents, and concerned individuals initiated the Vale Day School, the first school for developmentally disabled children in Porter County. The Deltas accepted financial and moral responsibility for the operation of this school, and created its Delta Date Calendar as a money making project to support the school financially. Vale Day School eventually evolved into the Special Education Learning Facility (SELF), which is now part of the public school system.

In 1993, to celebrate Opportunity Enterprises’ 25th anniversary, the Deltas hosted a Gala, which raised just over $23,000. The event was such a success that it has become an annual event, and has raised over $1 million to date.

"It's been very rewarding to see the Gala grow over the years into the premier event it is today,” says Lanie Steinwart, Chair of the Delta Gala Planning Committee. “Deltas have been proud to partner with OE, an organization that adds so much to our community."

oe_logoOE is extremely grateful to the Deltas for their long-standing commitment to OE and our mission,” says OE President/CEO Bill Trowbridge. “They are an important part of our organization’s history, and their dedication and hard work over the years have made a true difference in the lives of the clients we serve.”

Since 1967, OE has been a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing exceptional support and creating meaningful opportunities that allows its consumers to serve as an inspiration to the community. For more information, visit www.oppent.org.

Photo: Delta Theta Tau Gala Committee Chair Lanie Steinwart and OE President/CEO Bill Trowbridge at this year’s Gala, which raised $75,000 for OE