TEACH GALA BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
There is perhaps no more joyous occasion than the celebration of a birthday. And there is no more universal song for such an occasion than “Happy Birthday to You.” The singing of “Happy Birthday to TEACH,” marking its 5th anniversary, was proof of both assertions. On Saturday evening, October 25th, at Saint Mary of Sorrows Parish Hall in Fairfax, Virginia, ninety-six Friends of TEACH gathered for a Gala and blew out the candles on the birthday cake.
Guests of honor included the Guatemalan Ambassador to the United States, Francisco Villagrán de León and his wife, Donna Eberwine-Villagrán. The delicious gala dinner featured authentic Guatemalan cuisine from the Cuna del Sol Restaurant in Manassas, Virginia. The guests were entertained by “AWAL,” a group of local Guatemalan dancers who perform traditional Maya dances, and by young flamenco dancers in traditional costumes.
A very special thanks goes to all those who contributed to TEACH by attending the Gala , bidding on items at the silent auction, and shopping at the Guatemalan crafts market. Thanks also to the many donors who, though unable to attend the festivities, made generous contributions to help the children of TEACH. And finally, many thanks to the TEACH Gala Committee who organized an outstanding celebration honoring the growth of TEACH and the schooling opportunities TEACH has provided for nearly 500 Guatemalan children through five formative years.