HeartGift’s Party With A Purpose Gala Raises Over $1 Million

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio

THE SETTING: The JW Marriott was the setting of one of the city’s most anticipated spring fundraising events. Several hundred top medical leaders, children’s advocates, and philanthropists turned out for HeartGift’s annual Party with a Purpose gala. This year’s theme, Giving the Gift of Childhood, brought out playful fun for everyone, with the spirit of the evening culminating in the smashing of the events’ fundraising records. 

THE STYLE: The “cowboy-chic” crowd featured a mix of ballgowns, cocktail attire, and other denim ensembles accentuated with sequins, all complemented by Stetsons, of course. The festivities began with a VIP reception and cocktail hour where guests sipped on their favorite spirits, mingled, and perused tables filled with toys and candy to take home as keepsakes in keeping with the theme. The action then moved to the ballroom for the main program. As guests dined on their delectable multicourse meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders on the impact HeartGift has had on children worldwide. Next, the organization honored longtime HeartGift supporters Kerry and Joe Mims, Sheri and Bob Myer, and Oscar Torres. After a live auction by Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer, the festivities were capped off with a concert by country music superstar and Waco native Wade Bowen, who brought the crowd to their feet, singing along to his hit tunes.

THE PURPOSE: HeartGift’s Party with a Purpose raised over $1 million for the organization. Proceeds from the event will benefit HeartGift’s programs and services aimed towards helping children born with congenital heart defects. To date, the organization’s programs have saved the lives of over 1,000 children with congenital heart defects worldwide. The 2025 HeartGift Gala, celebrating its silver anniversary, will be held on April 12, 2025. For more information, visit HeartGift.org.