ACC Focus on the Colorado Chapter

Hosting a first class, formal event to raise funds for the benefit of a worthwhile charitable organization is a bold endeavor for any organization. And if it’s done successfully, it’s sure to give the host organization a new level of community recognition and respect. Thanks to the generous sponsorships of a veritable “Who’s Who” cast of Colorado ’s leading law firms, corporations and business entities, and the tireless efforts of several of your fellow ACC members, the Colorado chapter's first Black Tie Gala on Saturday, October 8th was a wonderful success. The ability to marshall such support to help the community and enhance ACC Colorado's recognition as a leader in caring has been most gratifying.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the charity benefited was the Denver Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (“DDVCC”), a 501(c)(3) organization committed to the prevention of domestic violence and assistance to victims of domestic violence.

This Black Tie Gala took place at the beautiful Cable Center at the University of Denver and featured a gourmet dinner preceded by a cocktail hour and followed by a casino and dancing to an exciting nine-piece band.

The keynote speaker for the event was Colorado State Gubernatorial candidate and former Denver District Attorney, Bill Ritter, a long-time advocate of the rights of victims of domestic violence. Representing DDVCC was Dora-Lee Larson, Executive Director, DDVCC. Serving as master of ceremonies for the evening was Susan Hammerman, chair of the chapter’s ad hoc Gala Committee. Susan is also a Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors of the Colorado chapter, and is Corporate Counsel to the Gates Corporation, one of the event’s sponsoring companies.

There are many clear indicators of the success of this first-of-its-kind Gala event for your chapter, including the amount of money that was raised for the charity—well over $10,000.00; the accolades expressed by representatives of the sponsoring entities on hand and the full capacity attendance of some 240 members and friends of ACC. But perhaps the best measure was the infectious laughter and smiles that so continuously revealed through the evening the fun being had by all. For additional photos of this event go to: http://www.acca.com/chapters/colo/photos/gala05/gala05.php.

Gala Success Story