News and Events

Gala Fundraiser Held in Coronado, California

May 1, 2004 - The first annual Helping Ugandans Grow Stronger, Inc. (HUGS) "Spring for the Children of Uganda" Gala was held at the beautiful Coronado Yacht Club in Coronado, California. Centered around the springtime theme of "new beginnings", the event was a special evening of great people, superb food, fabulous auctions and an important message.

The warm spring evening on Glorietta Bay began with cocktails and a silent auction, at which time the 75 attendees placed their bids on items ranging from theatre tickets to theme baskets to getaway weekends for two. Following a marvelous dinner prepared by Consummate Catering of Coronado, HUGS' President Victoria Gibson spoke to the guests about her experiences in Uganda and her goals for the foundation. Afterwards, a video was shown that documented a mobilization and registration of 180 Ugandan children for the HUGS child sponsorship program.

Alan Sappenfield closed out the evening by leading a live auction that included the use of an anniversary edition Harley-Davidson motorcycle, hot-air balloon rides, tandem skydiving, a vacation at an ocean-front condominium in Rosarito, and a round-trip ticket to Entebbe, Uganda.

After accounting for expenses, the event brought in nearly $15,000 in donations and pledges to benefit AIDS orphans. The money will be used to staff and fund the construction of housing and school facilities in the remote village of Bulanga in Uganda's Rakai District. Many thanks go out to all the volunteers who donated their time and effort towards making this first gala a huge success!