The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi announces its 21st annual Crystal Ball Gala to be virtually held January 16, 2021. While this is the foundation’s first virtual gala, due to COVID-19 precautions, it will still be full of surprises and showcase the charitable works of the northwest Mississippi region. “The Crystal Ball supports the philanthropic work of the Community Foundation,” said Keith Fulcher, President of the Community Foundation. “Revenue from the Ball allows us to carry out our mission of Connecting People Who Care With Causes That Matter. I invite everyone to join in supporting the world premiere of our first-ever virtual Crystal Ball.” Details of the online premiere event to come.
“The Crystal Ball is the ultimate social event of the year for northwest Mississippi, bringing together over 1,100 generous folks to celebrate the Community Foundation and its partners. We are deeply saddened that we will not be able to gather in person in 2021. However, along with every challenge lies opportunity. We are honored with the opportunity to host the 21st annual Crystal Ball in a new and innovative way. This virtual celebration is an opportunity for you to show your support for the good works of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi with your sponsorship and participation,” said co-chairs Michael and Elizabeth Bellipanni.
Honoring community stars the night of Crystal Ball has been a tradition that will still take place with the online event January 16. The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi will recognize the 2020 Community Stars and outstanding volunteers who have shown community spirit to be honored in the following categories: Dan Maddox Man of the Year; Margaret Maddox Woman of the Year; Non-Profit of the year; and Business of the Year. Nominations are open in the eleven counties served by the Community Foundation: Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Marshall, Leflore, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tate, Tallahatchie, and Tunica.
To make a nomination, go to https://cfnm.org/events/crystal-ball-gala/community-stars/ for the Community Star Award application. Past recipients representing outstanding service organizations, businesses, and individuals making a difference in their community are also listed on the website. Send all nominations to crystalball@cfnm.org or mail to: Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, 315 Losher Street, Suite 100, Hernando, MS, 38632. Deadline for nominations is 5pm CST on October 15, 2020.
“The 2020 Crystal Ball generated $195,000 in cash sponsorships,” said Stacye Trout, Development Director. “Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and volunteers, the Community Foundation was able to focus on the FEED Northwest Mississippi Fund and providing $450,000 in grants to food pantries and nonprofits supporting the educational needs of children. This was only possible thanks to the overwhelming financial success of the 2020 Gala. Sponsorships are now available for the 2021 Crystal Ball.”
For more information about sponsorships and volunteer opportunities with the 2021 Crystal Ball Gala, call 662.449.5002, text 662-719-1732, or email strout@cfnm.org.
About the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi:
The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 240 donor-established funds. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, and Tunica counties. A board of 19 volunteer civic leaders governs the Community Foundation. Learn more about the Community Foundation at www.cfnm.org or call 662.449.5002. Follow the Community Foundation on Facebook at facebook.com/CFNM315, Twitter at @CFNM_2002, YouTube at CFNM2002, and Instagram at CFNM2002.