CVACL Supports Seniors with 'Taste of the Derby' on May 6
Written by Alyssa Wilson, University of Lynchburg Bonner Intern
After a two year COVID hiatus, the Central Virginia Alliance for Community Living (CVACL) is back for its ‘Taste of the Derby’ party on Saturday, May 6 from 4-9pm.
The party is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year, completely sponsored so that money earned from ticket sales goes right back to supporting the organization’s programs.
“Our main mission is that any older adult can stay home and age with dignity and grace through the use of our services,” says Public Relations Coordinator Vickie Craig Tuck.
The CVACL offers a variety of services from Meals on Wheels for Seniors to home renovations programs.
The home weatherization and home repair program is open to the public, income based and based on family size. CVACL is able to fund the program through an AEP grant.
According to Tuck, the organization is able to go into homes and make between $10,000-15,000 energy efficiency renovations. They are even able to put in new windows, heat systems and light bulbs to decrease energy consumption and energy bill.
Another program is Dial-a-Ride, a non-emergency medical transportation program. Anyone over the age of 60 is eligible to use the program for any appointments such as, dialysis, pharmacies, counseling and grocery stores. CVACL is mindful of income and medical expenses, so they operate on a sliding-scale fee.
In order to keep programs like these afloat, the organization relies on fundraising events, like 'Taste of the Derby'.
During a fundraising meeting one day, a member of the board mentioned how much they loved the Kentucky Derby, and in 2018 the organization threw its first Kentucky Derby party.
The event has always been a beloved party, bringing people together to celebrate the Derby and honor the work that the agency does.
The agency was able to put on an annual party until 2020, this year’s being the first large fundraiser they have been able to have.
The party will take place at Tresca on 8th and include a hat contest, casino games, silent auction and live stream of the 149th Kentucky Derby.
For the silent auction guests can expect a wide variety of experience baskets for things like a bed and breakfast stay and dinner gift cards. In addition to this, there will also be a vintage section of the auction, full of unique items.
Tickets are available to purchase up until the day of the party and can be purchased online, by phone or even at the door.
To learn more about the event or the additional information about CVACL visit their SHARE Greater Lynchburg profile.