“Born To Be Me!” Arc Thrift Stores’ Gala Event

“Born To Be Me!” is Arc Thrift Stores’ annual star-studded gala.  The event honors the spirit and individuality of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities – as well as the individuals and businesses who support this important community.  This year’s theme is “Starstruck!”  “It’s a fun way to get the word out about the great work that we’re able to get done through our stores and the donations we collect,” said Arc Thrift Stores President and CEO Lloyd Lewis.

Cocktails, an elegant dinner, fashion show, live music, and a silent auction made for an amazing night.  Former Colorado Congressman Bob Beauprez and his wife Claudia are co-chairs of the event and were on hand to MC the live auction.  KUSA’s TaRhonda Thomas is the event’s emcee.

Three “Heroes of the Year” – each with a disability and each nominated by their peers – were honored. This year’s Heroes are:

• Vicky Kaiser, a fitting room attendant at Arc Thrift Stores’ Hancock store in Colorado Springs.
• Dusty Lee Miles, a men’s clothing hanger at Arc Thrift Stores’ Pueblo store.
• Garret Ringie, a donation attendant and unloader at the Green Mountain Arc Thrift Store in Lakewood,

As the major fundraiser for arc Thirft Stores, this event gives the children and adults served by The Arc Chapters an opportunity to lead independent, fulfilled, happy and productive lives in our community.  All of the items sold at the auction were refurbished from items purchased at Arc Thrift Stores. These items are purchased for mere dollars at one of the stores and then up-cycled and given new life and new purpose.

Since 1968, arc Thrift Stores has been the funding arm for thirteen Arc Chapters across the State of Colorado. Arc Thirft Stores currently own 22 thrift stores along the Front Range, and employ more than 200 individuals with disabilities, making it one of the largest integrated employers of people with disabilities in Colorado.  Arc Thirft Stores offer enrichment programs, job training and placement, as well as social activities for our employees with disabilities, known as Arc Ambassadors.