From a Center on Halsted news release
Chicago — Center on Halsted's 2012 On the Red Carpet Oscar watch party brought glitz and glamour to Chicago's Park West Theater Sunday night, where more than 400 guests watched the Academy Awards in style. The event was moved to the Park West this year, a larger venue to accommodate growing interest; even still, tickets sold out in record time.
All told, Center on Halsted raised a record $70,000 for their programs and services through ticket sales, a silent auction, a raffle and corporate sponsorships.
"Our tremendous success shows the support the people, companies and institutions of Chicago have for our Center," said CEO Modesto Tico Valle. "The money raised will go directly back to building and strengthening the LGBT community through the diverse programs offered daily at Center on Halsted."
In addition to broadcasting the awards show on three giant movie screens, the event included a full buffet dinner courtesy of the Entertaining Company, cocktails and champagne service for guests who were all dressed in their best celebrity styles. Adding to the festive atmosphere, attendees were interviewed on their outfits and predictions for the evening during the Live Red Carpet Arrival via closed circuit television that was broadcast live in the theater, courtesy of Mini of Chicago.
The Nielsen Company served as On the Red Carpet's presenting sponsor for the second year in a row. If people missed the event but would still like to donate to Center on Halsted, they can do so by visiting www.centeronhalsted.org . And they can find pictures of the evening on the Center's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/centeronhalsted.
Center on Halsted is the Midwest's most comprehensive community center dedicated to building and strengthening the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender ( LGBT ) community. More than 1,000 people visit the Center every day located in the heart of Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood. The diverse programs offered range from volleyball, yoga and cooking classes to free rapid HIV testing, group therapy, vocational training and a comprehensive LGBT seniors program.
Photos by Kat Fitzgerald ( MysticImagesPhotography.com )
