On Saturday evening, Nov. 16, the Butte Environmental Council (BEC) held its 44th Anniversary Gala. The gala is a celebration of achievements and environmental efforts of the community over the year. Weekend Wildcat volunteers served as hosts.
Guests began to flood through the door for the BEC Gala dinner at five p.m. The event was decorated elegantly with a featured open bar. Guests were encouraged to participate in the silent auction showcasing curated baskets with sustainable goods varying from locally owned businesses.
BEC is a well known non-profit environmental organization founded in 1957. Their goal is to provide the community with environmental education and advocacy through their various programs and events. They take pride in protecting and conserving the air, water, and land in Butte County.
Once the dinner began, our volunteers were working diligently to keep the guests satisfied. Meanwhile, the BEC Council held its ceremony to celebrate past achievements and honor individual recognitions. Throughout the year BEC conducts a number of service projects like trash clean-ups, advocacy community outreach, and environmental education programs This year their three main honorees included Emily Alma, Ali Melders-Knight and Donna Garrison.
The BEC Gala was a great turnout for Weekend Wildcat with a showing of 10 volunteers! BEC had volunteers engaging with CAVE volunteers in helping the gala attendees by serving them food and emptying their plates as needed. Behind the scenes, some of our volunteers helped by washing and putting away dishes. In between courses they also helped with the plate presentation for the guests. After the event, volunteers collaborated by clearing up the tables and cleaning up the venue.
Weekend Wildcat volunteer, Carolina Mendez, shared her experience volunteering at the gala, “Personally, volunteering has been a great way to get to know my community and meet so many people from different backgrounds. And of course, giving back.” Mendez is a returning Weekend Wildcat volunteer as she enjoys giving back to her community.
“I’ve never volunteered like this before, but the feeling after an event is so rewarding and humbling,” said Mendez. She had a memorable night at the gala by doing tasks she’s never done before. All the volunteers handled their duties with respect and treated guests with sincere kindness. These are great customer service skills to use in your future career! “I guess I can finally say I have some serving experience. Thanks Butte Environmental Council for having us!” Mendez said.
The BEC Anniversary Gala was a successful event with a great response from the community. All the dinner tables were filled with plenty of food and desserts to go around for all the invited guests. Each year BEC looks forward to their anniversary gala and our volunteers as it’s become their most celebrated event. We thank BEC for allowing our continued partnership by giving us the opportunity to give back!