A Magical Night of Masquerade

By day it’s a bustling professional office building. By night – well, for one night – it’s a party palace. On Saturday evening Denver Human Services hosted the 4^th annual Black & White Masquerade Ball, to benefit GIVE Denver, in its gorgeous east side office.

“The first Masquerade Ball was also the grand opening of this beautiful building,” explained Marv Allen, GIVE Denver Director. “It’s the perfect place for the event.”

He’s right. The ample space worked well for having a stage, dance floor, cocktail area, food stations and several silent auction tables. Pink and purple spotlights replaced the lighting of daily fluorescents. Large glass vases filled with over-sized black and white feathers, black velvet cushy seating, and bar top tables added to the atmosphere. Yet, the best decorations were the variety of masks; masks of gold, black, white, silver, sparkle, feathers, twists, swirls and curls worn by the more than 200 guests.

“It’s great to see so many people come out and support the good work of GIVE,” said DHS Executive Director Penny May. “GIVE Denver is truly a beacon of hope for many in the Denver community when they need it most. Donations from the Denver community allow GIVE Denver to provide basic necessities, like food, shampoo, school supplies or diapers, to thousands of people each year.” She went on to credit the success of the evening to GIVE Denver Coordinator Tom Meiers. “He did the lion’s share of the work to make tonight happen and he did a great job.”

The evening included an outstanding performance of drum, song and dance from West Africa by students from SOAR Charter School’s music program. Then Denver’s own old school funk and R&B band Jakarta took the stage and rocked the space. In the end, how could anyone possibly remember they were in a professional building? It could only be remembered as an incredible party.

Each year, thousands of people receive support through the GIVE Denver Center at the Denver Department of Human Services. The Masquerade Ball raises resources for foster children, homeless families and people who may not have their needs met through regular government assistance programs. GIVE Denver relies on donations to provide items such as school supplies, diapers, emergency clothing and basic necessities to clients of Human Services.

GIVE Denver’s mission is to instill hope and a brighter future to Denver’s under-served community through donations and with the assistance of volunteers.