United Against Poverty hit the jackpot during an inaugural High Roller Casino Night: 007 Casino Royale at the Piper Aircraft hangar, which raised funds to support the nonprofit’s programs and services.
As bettors ventured into the glamorous casino, fun money in hand, they could play blackjack, roulette, craps, poker and slot machines, while enjoying spirits and appetizers from 21st Amendment Distillery and even an OTS Mobile Cigar Lounge.
The stakes were high, and the drinks were “shaken, not stirred” as high rollers channeled their inner James Bond in hopes of winning big at the tables. The more chips they won, the more chances they had of winning one of the four specialty raffle items.
The décor included three model Piper Jets, where guests posed for photos, channeling the suave, sophistication of “Bond, James Bond,” as they contemplated making a clean getaway after the evening’s festivities.
Gambling aside, the main objective was to support the mission of United Against Poverty to empower families through education and job training, and to provide access to critical resources.
Matt Tanner, UP executive director, said that they had reached out to Piper Aircraft when they were contemplating adding a fourth fundraising event to their existing lineup of signature events – the Valentine Ball, Burgers & Brews and the Turkey Trot.
Casino Night was designed so everyone could attend, whether high rollers or penny ante, Tanner explained.
He said proceeds would specifically benefit their two workforce programs – Success Training Employment Program (STEP) and the new Build-Up program – as well as their Crisis Stabilization program. Each is designed to empower individuals to achieve economic self-sufficiency.
STEP equips the unemployed or underemployed with essential job skills training and job placement services. The Build-Up program offers hands-on training and skill development to help individuals secure in-demand, high-paying careers in the trades, construction and manufacturing industries. And the Crisis Stabilization program provides skills, resources and guidance to support individuals experiencing physical, emotional or financial instability.
Next is the 10th annual Burgers & Brews fundraiser, June 28 at Riverside Park. For more information, visit UPIRC.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
