The Opelousas Pregnancy Center held its annual gala on Saturday, providing an evening of elegance for the formal affair with fun and exciting experiences as well as insight into what the center does for the community.
Guests were welcomed with beautiful piano music played by Catherine Brooks as they entered Our Savior’s Church. An interactive photo booth was set up inside for guests to take fun keepsakes of the evening and a silent auction with tables lined from end to end of items up for bid.
Volunteers and advocates were recognized during the program for their service to expecting mothers that come through the center while guests enjoyed a delectable meal catered by Big Hill Cafe at Brent’s. Taking a deeper look at the work and services the center provides, a video prepared by Page50 Media was shared for attendees to see the impact OPC’s program had from one of their own client’s perspective.
To lighten the evening, special guest Jeff Copeland entertained attendees to a game of Heads or Tails for a fun and exciting chance to win cash prizes. To kick things up a notch, the Texan energized fellow guests throughout the live auction to entice bidders to raise their paddles.
Just some of the notable encounters up for bid included an LSU Game Day Experience which included overnight stay at Mariott, an adventure package for a 7-day stay at Lake Darbonne, a Boujee Teepp Party Plus Photo Session, just to name a few during the live auction.
Local artist Sarah Clostio created a stunning live painting, inspired by the theme of the evening and the finished piece was auctioned and sold towards the end of the program.
Since its initial opening in 2020, the Opelousas Pregnancy Center has hosted 2,438 appointments for expecting mothers and has served 691 women who’ve come through their program and welcomed over 100 babies. A cost analysis of the services provided by OPC comes out to $1,900 for one client who enters the program at the beginning of their pregnancy and utilizes all available resources. This comprehensive support includes pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, educational classes, mentoring sessions and essential supplies, all offered at no cost to the women they serve to ensure care and guidance during a very vulnerable time.
The funds raised throughout the Gala as well as the generous support from donors, sponsors, and additional events throughout the year make all of this possible for Opelousas Pregnancy Center to provide a source of hope.