Event: A Night for African Education
Chair: Abbie DeSantis
Beneficiary: Indigenous Education Foundation of Tanzania (IEFT)
Event411: Supporters of the Indigenous Education Foundation of Tanzania (IEFT) will gather on March 11 for the second annual gala at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace for a gourmet dinner, full host bar, live music, silent auction, and Fair-Trade Maasai Jewelry & Crafts all for a spectacular cause – learning more about education in East Africa and supporting solutions to global poverty.

What is it about the organization that made you willing to take on the role as event Chair?

I was willing to take on the role of event Chair for IEFT’s, A Night for African Education, because it is such an important cause to me. I believe that educating the children of rural Tanzania is the foundation for change and the most powerful tool that we can give these children to escape their extreme poverty. When I was volunteering with IEFT in Tanzania, I was able to see firsthand how important education is to these underprivileged children, not only for the betterment of their communities and for the future of Tanzania, but also on such an individual level as well. Working with these children, I was able to watch them grow and learn. I saw them ultimately become empowered by education and really gain a sense of increased personal worth. It became clear to me that these children don’t want to be just a statistic, they want to be somebody, and I can’t think of anything more important than that. I believe that IEFT is an organization that is really making a difference for these children through their tremendous efforts in providing quality, sustainable education for the indigenous children of rural Tanzania and their communities.

What will be special about the event? If this is an annual event, what will be new elements added to this year’s event?

This year’s IEFT event is special because last year was our first annual event in Chicago, and with all of the amazing support we received from the Chicago community, we are elated to be hosting again this year. So, in an effort to try and grow last year’s event, we wanted to make this evening more special by hosting a gourmet dinner with a premium host bar, live entertainment, and a silent auction. In addition, Ashley Holmer, IEFT’s Co-Founder, will also be in attendance to welcome guests and share her experiences working with the children in the African bush. She will also be presenting a video that highlights the successes of Orkeeswa Secondary School and the organization’s student sponsorship program.

What constitutes success for you with regards to the specific event you’re chairing?

A successful evening for me would be to raise as much money as possible for the next construction project at the Orkeeswa Secondary School, a $100,000 two-classroom structure, housing a Library and Computer Lab powered by solar energy, as well as for our guests to have a fantastic time in gratitude for all their continued support, and to ultimately raise awareness for such an important cause.

How do you balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill?

I believe that it is a collaborative effort to balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill. Once the awareness is created, even in a tough economy like this, our community continues to reach out and contribute what they can to help others in need.

What plans have you made to address problems that may arise?

Last year’s event ran pretty smoothly, but as for this year we have really grown and are throwing a much larger event. So, if there are any unforeseen issues, I plan to stay calm and adaptable to have them resolved as quickly as possible. Being a theater producer by day, I am used to dealing with unforeseen problems all the time. So, despite any issues we may experience that evening, the show must go on.

What background do you have to take on the role as Chair?

My family and I have been involved with Catholic Charities for many years. My grandfather also established the DeSantis Foundation, which helps support Catholic Charities, the Big Shoulders Fund, and several bread lines in the Chicago area. I am currently serving as a director.

What will be the most compelling event element?

I think that the Orkeeswa Secondary School video will have a very compelling impact on the guests. It’s such a powerful element because you are able to see a day in the life of an indigenous Tanzanian child, what extreme hardships they face, and the positive impact IEFT’s involvement is making in their lives. Every time I watch the video it has a profound effect on me, especially because when I traveled to Tanzania, I had the privilege of working with these bright students and getting to know each of them on a personal level. I will never forget listening to their incredible, yet heartbreaking stories, the sounds of their laughter, or their beautiful smiles that are forever etched in my heart and soul.

What are you wearing to the event?

I will be wearing a Ralph Lauren Black Label dress and Maasai tribal jewelry that I brought back from Tanzania.

What is your fundraising motto?

It sounds a bit silly, but “doing it makes you feel good.” I can’t think of anything that makes me feel better then when I am getting involved, volunteering or simply raising awareness. It really gives me a great sense of worth knowing that I am giving back and being a better person.

What qualities make an event Chair successful?

I think that a successful event Chair must possess intelligence, confidence, passion for the cause, great communication skills, perseverance, and a little pizazz. I also think that is essential to able to know how to work a room properly.

What external resources do you use in your fundraising efforts?

I use PR resources, attend other fundraising events, and am constantly networking. I have also started to use Facebook, because it is a really fast and easy way to get in touch with so many people.

What was the best charity event you’ve ever attended and why?

I don’t think I can single out one charity event that’s been the best. I have been to quite a few and pretty much always have a really good time. I definitely think it has something to do with all the great energy at a charity event. It’s also really fun to see everyone dressed up and in good spirits, enjoying themselves and the fabulous evening.

What is one fundraising tip you’ve learned that you’re willing to share?

One tip I learned is that you can’t do it all yourself. It’s important to get the help of your friends and volunteers, and to collaborate with as many people as you can. I’m always pleasantly surprised to see how many people are willing to help. It’s amazing what some people will offer or bring to the table when it’s for charity.

What are three words that best describe you?

Genuine, determined, and spunky.

Do you have an event in Chicago that you would like us to feature? Tell us in the comment box below!

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