Ann Welch and Mary Ann Carter
Gala Committee Co-Chairs Extraordinaires
The success of the 2007 "Building A Future" Gala resulted from the tremendous contributions of the time and talent of the volunteer event committee. Leading that committee were Co-Chairs Ann Welch and Mary Ann Carter. With enthusiasm and grace, generosity and spirit, they coordinated the logistical complexities surrounding decorations, menu, entertainment, sponsorship, and more. With Ann and Mary Ann at the helm, the very talented committee hosted a most memorable evening.
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Tell us about the 2007 “Building A Future” gala!
AW: The Gala was a smashing success. I'd like to give special thanks to our Gala Board and their committees - they were fantastic! It was the first major fundraising event following the merger of the Contra Costa and East Bay chapters. Our success was entirely due to the tireless efforts of many volunteers and staff from both affiliates, working together. Much like building a Habitat home - a result of unselfish teamwork done by many dedicated individuals. The success of the galla demonstrates the strength of Habitat East Bay.
MC: Working together with so many dedicated capable volunteers, staff and board members was a most gratifying experience. The Gala was held at the beautiful Blackhawk Museum in Danville with over 400 guests in attendance. The delicious dinner, gorgeous decor and delightful music made for a most enjoyable evening. Many generous sponsors as well as fabulous live and silent auction items contributed to the financial success of the event.
What motivates you to volunteer with Habitat?
AW: I believe the health and strength of our communities begins within the family - in the sanctuary of their home. Our challenge locally is of course a serious shortage of affordable housing. Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity is the best way for me to address this problem and I am relieved to know that my efforts are helping other families in our area.
MC: There is so much poverty and need throughout the world that I feel this is one way I can contribute to providing some of these families with warm, comfortable homes as well as a new start in life and hope for the future.
How does the mission and philosophy of Habitat East Bay fit in your own life values?
AW: I believe in families and the importance of having a comfortable and safe home to create and nurture healthy children and strong families.
MC: I believe that God has put us on this earth to love and care for each other. Those of us who are in good health and financially able should help those less fortunate - the poor, the homeless, the hungry and all others who are suffering. I believe that Habitat's philosphy of having each recipient family contribute 500 "equity sweat hours" toward the building of their home is invaluable. Not only will they take pride in ownership, but it will develop in them a great feeling of self-worth.
What are your plans with us in the future?
AW: I have discussed with my husband how we might assist on a build. Having been to a key ceremony is an experience I will never forget.
MC: I would be happy to help whenever and wherever I am needed. It has been a real pleasure and privilege for me to work with so many loving, caring, dedicated people.
Tell us a little bit about yourself? Besides volunteering with HFHEB what other things do you do with your time?
AW: My family is my number one priority. I am blessed with three grown sons - each now out on his own - building their careers and some day their families. I enjoy cooking, entertaining and travel. Another area which I have done some volunteer work in is equine therapy - using horses as a therapeutic tool to assist children with various issues from blindness to crippling diseases and autism. I have enjoyed horses and riding and love to share my experiences with others in need.
MC: I believe that I have a heart for helping others. In addition to Habitat for Humanity, I am involved in several other nonprofit organizations. I have chaired many fundraising events for the California Symphony as well as 2 previous Habitat for Humanity Galas. My husband, Patrick, and I currently serve on the Board of Directors of Anka Behavioral Health, Inc., working with the homeless and mentally handicapped. We also serve on the Board of Westminster House at UC Berkeley which is involved with Campus Ministry. We are very active in our church where I have served as Elder and Deacon. We have gone on several mission trips to Mexico and the Balkan countries. Next summer we hope to travel to Uganda to work in schools for orphans whose parents have died of AIDS. I believe the God has blessed each one of us with very special unique talents that He wants us to share with those in need.
Tell us about your most memorable Habitat story.
AW: The whole experience has been wonderful for my family and myself.
MC: A few years ago my church sponsored a Habitat Home for the Navaro family - a single father with 4 children including a daughter who was both mentally and physically handicapped and in a wheelchair. Helping our church and the Navaro family build this home and seeing the joy it brought to everyone involved was one of the most moving and inspiring experiences I have ever had. God truly was in our midst!
