Green Tie Gatherings “at home” event for Catholic Charities

OKLAHOMA CITY – On March 6, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is planning a new and innovative way to raise funds in place of their annual Green Tie Gala fundraiser.

This year, due to the restrictions of the pandemic and for the safety of staff and donors, the “gatherings” will be virtual,” said Jessi Riesenberg, senior director of development and outreach. 

Donors will be able to do everything online from purchasing tickets to bidding on auction items.

“What your gathering looks like is entirely up to you as there are many packages to choose from. A gathering will be much like your table at the gala with your choice of who you are with or just for two. You even can gather with other sponsors and combine your packages for more fun,” Riesenberg said.

On the evening of March 6, there will be a silent auction and the “change a life” portion where there will be a live thermometer showing how much money is being raised. There will be videos on Facebook throughout the day highlighting how lives are being impacted. Donors can opt out of ordering food, but the goal is to replicate the annual Green Tie Gala at home.

Catholic Charities has garnered a fantastic committee excited to help raise the funds needed to support the women and children of Sanctuary Women’s Development Center in Oklahoma City and Norman. This includes Mackenzie Barreca, Barbara Brou, Deanna Cardenas, Joe Cardenas, Kaci Cardenas, Robin Coffey, Nicole Dell’Osso, Susan Dell'Osso, Norine Fitzsimmons, Kristen King, Sue Krenger, Mary Joyce, Duane and Robin Mass, Julie Naifeh, Bessma Todd and Sanctuary staff who work with clients face-to-face.

The goal is to raise $350,000 for the needs of women and children in Oklahoma City and Norman who utilize Catholic Charities’ Development Centers to take showers, wash laundry, pick up groceries, clothing and other needs such as utility bill and rental deposit assistance.

“Your gift or sponsorship for these ‘gatherings’ is a gift to help women in need,” Riesenberg said. 

"Our main goal is to help women and children gain stability, housing and personal empowerment,” said Jessica Nuno, director of the Oklahoma City Women’s Sanctuary. “We have a 99 percent placement rate for women and families. Through our services clients not only gain the permanency of a home, but the tools they need for continued success.”