GATHERINGS FOR GOOD PARTNERS WITH THE WILLIAM SANSUM DIABETES CENTER TO HOST THE 15TH ANNUAL TASTE OF THE VINE & AUCTION FUNDRAISER

Earlier this year, Gatherings for Good partnered with the William Sansum Diabetes Center (WSDC) to produce their 15th Annual Taste of the Vine & Auction fundraiser which was held on August 26, 2017 at QAD in Summerland, CA. Money raised went to support the organization and the work they do in the Santa Barbara community through education, care and treatment to those affected with diabetes

The event included 36 food, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverage purveyors who offered up small bites and tastings to over 300 guests which included several sponsors including their largest sponsor, Rabobank. Event goers were treated to music by local Santa Barbara DJs Zeke Monarrez and Jerry Rodriguez who were also the event Emcees.

Special performance by 2016 teen star winner Jackson Gilles was one of the highlights of the day.  Jackson who is a Type 1 diabetic played a couple songs for the crowd and spoke about his personal experience. Chef Charles Mattox, executive director of Reversed, a reality show about diabetes also spoke to crowd and displayed enthusiasm for doing his part to help raise awareness about diabetes.

A VIP reception on the balcony was set up beautifully with lounge furniture provided by the Tent Merchant and Riverbench Winery served glasses of sparkling wine as first guests began to arrive.

It was a busy day that came together over a period of 5 months from the time we came on board as the event producer. Over 80 volunteers were onsite throughout the day which began at 9am for set up in the morning. Many volunteers were needed to help with tasks including event set up and breakdown, food service, raffle ticket sales, auction set up and working the guest registration area assisting with checking guests in and out.

The Gatherings for Good team along with the WSDC staff and event committee worked together to create a fun afternoon event that provided people with a wide variety of food and beverage options, live entertainment and impressive auction items to bid on during both the silent and live auctions which included trips to Tuscany, Ireland and Costa Rica.

Local transportation company Jump on the School Bus who is known best for providing wedding and event transportation and tours graciously donated an 8 hour wine or beer tour for up to 30 guests to visit some of the finest local wineries and breweries around the central coast.

The event raised $127,000 for the diabetes center and generated more exposure in the Santa Barbara community. We were happy to do our part to ensure the event was a success by strategic planning, design concept, vendor sourcing, volunteer coordination and management, overseeing all logistical elements as well as on-site event execution. ​