Photo By Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Kirby | Annmarie Raymond, Family Services Division director, gives thanks to participants and...... read more read more
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JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - The record breaking Diamonds and Denim fundraiser, hosted at the Jacksonville Country Club, demonstrated how much the community really cares for kids Sept. 20.
This year’s Diamonds and Denim fundraiser was more successful than all of the previous three, breaking its record for attendance and money raised. This fun-filled event came with live music, well-prepared food, drinks and laughter. The first Diamonds and Denim event was held in 2009.
Diamonds and Denim is the annual fundraiser for the Child Advocacy Center according to www.onslowkids.org/diamondsndenim.php, and this is the first year Naval Criminal Investigative Service was a sponsor. All of the money raised at the event goes to the CAC to provide services to children who suffer physical or sexual abuse.
“This event is huge and (it shows) what we’re doing is really important,” said Kathleen Holbrook, CAC of Onslow County director. “Child abuse is something that needs to be eradicated and (supporters of CAC) want to make a difference.”
For some families the event was their first experience while others have attended every year since it began, and it’s not hard to see why. Many women favor the Diamonds and Denim event because of the exclusive setting and posh feel while men enjoy the high energy and excitement.
“It’s a fun event,” said Heidi Baur, director of the Department of Social Services. “Ladies like to put on some bling (but) be comfortable at the same time, so jeans and diamonds kind of go together.”
A difference from last year, aside from the record-breaking crowd, was the abundance of items in the silent and live auctions. An emotional video of children was shown to emphasize the focus of the event.
“I think it’s important for people to understand what they’re here to support,” said Baur. “It’s all well and good to come out, have a good time and enjoy yourself, but when you understand what you’re supporting, then you can feel better about what you’re doing; you tend to feel more generous.”
Towards the end of the night, local band Notorious Clam Slammers performed as everyone got a plate of food prepared by chefs from a local restaurant.
Michael Williams, supervisory special agent for the family sexual violence unit with the NCIS aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, said this event was a hundred times better than events he has been to in the past, from the food to the auctions.
“It’s a great event and it’s for a good cause,” said Williams.
| Date Taken: | 09.20.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 09.24.2012 16:15 |
| Story ID: | 95213 |
| Location: | JACKSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 135 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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