On Wednesday, November 4, 2015, the BABC of Greater Philadelphia hosted an international fashion event at the world renowned, iconic clothier, Boyds Philadelphia. Attendees spent an unforgettable evening in the magnificent, five story building raising money for an important local charity. Guests enhanced valuable business connections while shopping for global designer apparel, shoes and bags, and enjoyed a whiskey tasting sponsored by Edrington Group and food by the Victoria Freehouse. Everyone received a special shopping discount, and 100% of Chamber net ticket sales revenue and 5% of Boyds’ total retail sales from the evening were donated to The Ronald McDonald House. The Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House supports families of seriously ill children by creating a community of comfort and hope. Our event donation went toward supporting families traveling from outside of the United States for treatment. We are proud to report a donation amount of more than $2,500.
Howard Silverstone, BABC President welcomed guests and introduced Lawrence Jacobson, Director of Leadership Giving, Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. Lawrence presented a short story of the first House That Love Built in Philadelphia, and discussed why the House is uniquely suited to serve families. Currently, more than 2,000 families are served annually, and there are plans to expand during the next few years. Lawrence explained how the House is funded and discussed ways people can help from volunteering to cook meals to hosting, listening, nurturing, or by simply being there and helping out in any way they can.
After Lawrence talked about the House and how it serves children and their families who need support while fighting life threatening illness at area hospitals, Alex Gushner, the fourth generation family member to be involved in managing Boyds Philadelphia spoke on behalf of the business. Alex provided a brief history of Boyds’ 75 years of operation and the family’s commitment to serving and supporting the local community.
Boyds, the newest BABC Club Level member company, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest clothing stores. The Store is recognized for providing customers with exclusive merchandise, and offering one of the country’s largest selections of fine men’s and women’s designer fashions. Alex concluded the speaking portion of the evening by thanking everyone for attending and encouraging attendees to shop to support a great cause – The Ronald McDonald House.
As guests departed each person was presented with a Boyds gift bag with goodies from the evening.
Special thanks to Boyds Philadelphia for providing the venue; the Chilean & American Chamber of Commerce for partnering with us on this program and for providing the wine; Edrington Group for hosting the whiskey tasting; and Peroni for donating the beer.
