News and Events

HUGS 2005 Spring Gala Held at Sea World

May 27, 2005 - Helping Ugandans Grow Stronger, Inc. (HUGS) held its second annual gala fundraiser at the exciting Sea World Adventure Park in San Diego, California. The event, which took place on Friday, May 6th, was a special evening of great people, superb food, fabulous auctions and an important invitation for guests to "Join the Adventure" in helping the children of Uganda.

The evening began with cocktails and a silent auction amid the California Tidepools exhibit, at which time the 85 attendees placed their bids on items ranging from theatre tickets to theme baskets to getaway weekends for two, all donated by local businesses. Following a marvelous buffet dinner in the World of the Sea Aquarium, a video entitled "HUGS Mission 2004" was shown. Emphasizing the HUGS slogan of "One child, one village at a time," this video documents the current situation in southern Uganda's Rakai District and provides details on the HUGS child sponsorship program. Afterwards, Leanne, a member of last year's HUGS volunteer missionary team, spoke to the guests about her experiences during the 2004 mission trip.

Joe Bradley closed out the evening by leading a live auction that included the use of an anniversary edition Harley-Davidson motorcycle, a weekend vacation at a cabin in Idyllwild, and a dinner for eight prepared by Christian Vignes, executive chef of San Diego's Cafe Sevilla.

The event exceeded expectations for the donations and pledges that will go 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. Just as important, however, was the receipt of new sponsorships for over 25 needy children. Many thanks go out to all the volunteers who donated their time and effort towards making this second gala a huge success!