The Dallas-as-philanthropist social scene has become a little overstated in our new role as reality television's home base. Still, drinking, dancing and spending for a purpose make sense to the Dallas personality, and seeing and being seen appeals to our boastful nature. The public competition of a live auction can show off that distinct money-in-my-pocket shine, and at the same time raise some cash for our city's most important community and cultural organizations.
We are, after all, home to the always jaw-dropping Black Tie Dinner, an already sold-out November event that has distributed over $15,000,000 in funds to beneficiaries over the years, and whose event is a Dallas maximalist's dream. And then there's the Dallas Art Ball, that show-stopper of designer dresses and Dallas dandies, set against the backdrop of the transformed Dallas Museum of Art.
In terms of philanthropy as sport, everybody wins. You get dressed up and maybe crash some Modern Luxury society pics, and the charity of your choosing meets their bottom line. Here are some dates to save for the upcoming season:
Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) is one of the largest supporters of direct care for people living with HIV/AIDS, and puts on some of the city's most memorable festivities. Tickets for October 19's Burgers and Burgundy range from $75-$150, and get you burgers from some Dallas' most buzzed about chefs, plus wine pairings. Save the date for their Holidays By Design event on November 29 -- it's always a stylish way to welcome the holiday season. And you can wear the eccentric outfit you have been saving, these artists and designers always bring it.
October 25, you'll want to Rock the Red Door with Cancer Support Community. Their Young Leadership Board has snagged Chace Crawford as the celebrity chair, so this is your chance to pretend that the paparazzi are waiting in the bushes for you, and there will probably be a bonus Romo appearance. The attire is "'80s rad," so you know the Spazmatics will be around. Tickets range from $75-$125 and the whole thing goes down at House of Blues.
On November 3, the Artist vs. Architects Gala will benefit Dwell With Dignity's mission to provide inspiring homes for families struggling with homelessness and poverty. The 24 selected artists and architects have created new work to be judged while you sip wine, silently bid on an auction and mingle with Dallas' most interesting creatives.
This barely scratches the surface, but if you're going to raise a ruckus, you may as well raise some dollars.
