Prince Frederick, MD – For the fifth summer in a row Calvert Hospice has organized a gala fundraising event. For the 2017 celebration there are some changes. “We wanted to do something different,” said Calvert Hospice Executive Director Jean Fleming, who explained while the summer fundraiser would not be a luau as it was from 2013 to 2016, there are some components that have not changed. If you’re a fan of the five-piece dance band NightLife you will be pleased to hear that they will return to provide live entertainment. Fabulous food prepared and served by Maryland Country Caterers will also be part of the celebration Thursday, Aug. 10 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
What has changed in 2017 are the venue and theme. The scene has shifted to Running Hare Vineyard and the event has been billed “An Evening in the Vineyard.” Fleming told TheBayNet.com that “the opportunity presented itself to us.” With a strong relationship already forged with the vineyard’s management and a chance to move to a venue that addresses logistical concerns, Calvert Hospice officials decided the change made sense.
Fleming said having the fundraiser at Running Hare Vineyard will provide more room for the band, seating for over 400 and parking for 250 vehicles. Additionally, Calvert Hospice will sponsor a VIP event for the sponsors. According to Fleming, the Aug. 10 event has a growing sponsorship list with many previous corporate sponsors re-upping at higher levels.
In addition to the food, wine and other beverages, and live music, “An Evening in the Vineyard” will included a silent auction with an array of items up for bid. Amanda Peterson, Calvert Hospice’s communications specialist, told the TheBayNet.com that a technological innovation called “BidPal” will be employed that evening, allowing attendees to bid on auction items via their phones.
The auction items include local artwork, jewelry and something special from the vacation club “Dream Trips.” A club representative has about eight vacation experiences to be auctioned off. “We’ve only been given teasers,” said Peterson. “We’ll find out more at the event.”
Fleming said the purpose of “An Evening in the Vineyard” and all of the Calvert Hospice fundraising events are to raise funds to keep the Burnett Calvert Hospice House in operation. The six-bed residential home opened in 2010 and provides Calvert County residents in hospice care who require more skilled care than can be provided at home. While there is a charge for room and board, Fleming said no one is turned away because of inability to pay. The house is staffed fulltime. An estimated $700,000 is needed to keep the Burnett Calvert Hospice House open.
An Evening in the Vineyard attendees will have a chance to participate in “Fund a Need,” that is, make a direct donation to a specific hospice component. “They know what their money goes to,” said Fleming, who explained the local hospice programs that pay tribute to veterans and impact children are the most popular funding needs among contributors.
Approximately 20 volunteers and seven to eight staff members will be working at the event. The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office Explorers will be helping with parking. The food to be served is described by Calvert Hospice officials as “upscale summer party food.” The menu includes fish, beef, pasta, oysters and desserts.
“It’s a beautiful place,” said Fleming. “The food will be outstanding. And the wine will definitely be flowing.” In addition to Running Hare Vineyard’s award-winning wines, the equally celebrated brews from Calvert Brewing Company will also be served.
Tickets for An Evening in the Vineyard are $125 per person in advance and $135 per person at the door. Call Calvert Hospice for tickets or purchase them online. Peterson said online ticket sales will end early Thursday morning, Aug. 10. The number for Calvert Hospice is 410-535-0892.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com