On Aug. 1, a unique and magical event took place at the Dumas Bay Centre in Federal Way.

Under the adept leadership of chairwoman Karen Gonter, and with the help of over 100 volunteers, event sponsors and community supporters, FUSION hosted its 14th annual art benefit, “A Night of Magic.”

Approximately 700 guests attended this year’s event. Under the setting sun, guests savored spectacular culinary delights donated by the Dash Point Metropolitan Market, while perusing original and creative works of art by 40 local artists featured in the Art Walk. Silent and live auctions featured numerous items including a two-week vacation in Portugal, a fabulous black pearl necklace donated by Jeffrey Jewelers, and a cruise on Holland America.

Musicians, magical fairies, magicians and guitar music entertained guests as they sipped refreshing drinks donated by Poverty Bay Coffee Company.

The net proceeds from this year’s event were approximately $93,000! These funds will be invested in our transitional housing and support services for women and children in the Federal Way community. FUSION (Friends United to Shelter the Indigent, Oppressed, and Needy) currently maintains and operates nine fully-furnished housing units and contracts case management services through the South King County YWCA.

FUSION will acquire a tenth housing unit in 2007. The “fusion” of community efforts has enabled our all-volunteer, nonprofit organization to provide for the needs of homeless women and children in transition.

We would like to give special recognition to the Dash Point Metropolitan Market for being the principle sponsor of this year’s event. By donating all the catering costs valued at over $10,000, FUSION’s profits will be invested in the transitional housing program and not in overhead costs.

As a major sponsor, Air Systems Engineering donated $12,663. Prudential NW Realty granted $7,500 and Homestreet Bank sponsored the event with a $3,000 donation, and presented a check from the Homestreet Community Housing Award in the amount of $10,000. Many other businesses, private donors, churches, service organizations and volunteers have contributed financially and with in-kind donations.

We want to thank the Federal Way Mirror for the featured articles printed about FUSION before and after the event. Because of their support, we were able to raise our attendance at the event and raise community awareness for our mission. We would also like to acknowledge the financial contributions from Pete von Reichbauer through the Metropolitan King County Council and the support from the City of Federal Way. Thank you for helping us to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our community.

Peggy LaPorte is the FUSION founder and event sponsor chair. Info: www.fusionfederal

way.org.

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