Sleep America Charities announced that on Tuesday, September 22nd, 2009 Debbie Gaby’s Catwalk for Charity luncheon at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort and Spa raised over $40,000 for the beneficiaries: Sojourner Center and Sleep America Charities.
Philanthropists of the Year, Ira and Cheryl Hintzen-Gaines, surprised the entire audience when they announced their legacy gift of $500,000 to Sojourner Center.
“This year’s Catwalk for Charity event, in support of Sojourner Center’s Save a Bed Campaign, will provide many nights of safe shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Sojourner Center is extremely grateful for everyone’s involvement with the event,” says Executive Director, Connie Phillips. “I would especially like to Debbie and Len Gaby, Sleep America, Cheryl Hintzen-Gaines, Ira Gaines, the Montelucia Resort, all of the celebrity models, and the entire event committee for their dedication of time, talents and treasures.”
The event began at 11a.m. in the main arrival courtyard of the resort with a great belly dancing performance to keep the audience entertained. There were raffle prizes, a delicious luncheon, fun fashion show presented by Dillard’s and a live auction. Jan D’Atri and Al McCoy, the emcees of the event, kept the crowd entertained while the models strutted their stuff down the catwalk.
“We are so thrilled with the amount of money we were able to raise,” Sleep America President Debbie Gaby said. “During these tough times every dollar counts. Thanks to the community, we will be able to provide support to many local charities.”
Celebrity models that participated in this year’s event included Gena Lee Nolin, Sheriff Joe Arpaio, Tara Hitchcock, Jan D’Atri, Kaley O’Kelly, Tram Mai, Yetta Gibson, Sean Mclaughlin, Beverly Kidd, Linda Herold, Rebecca Thomas, Johnjay and Rich, Mrs. World Diane Tucker and many others!
Sleep America Charities is dedicated to improving the Quality of Life for others by providing assistance, support and other resources to deserving Valley charities and organizations in need. Sleep America is the largest mattress retailer in Arizona. In March 2006, Sleep America was acquired by Sleep Country Canada. Founded in 1997 by Debbie Gaby and her husband, Len, Sleep America has over 130 employees and over 40 store locations statewide. This year Sleep America celebrates twelve successful years in business. For the Sleep America store nearest you call 1-888-94-SLEEP. For more information contact Katie Miller at 602.442.6589 or go to www.sleepamerica.com.