Annual Crozier fundraising gala scheduled for April 21

By Andrew Junker, The Catholic Sun
March 1, 2007

The Catholic Community Foundation will host its annual Crozier Gala at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale April 21. The night of dinner and entertainment is the sole fundraiser for the organization.

Funds raised during the evening will help support a number of programs “to further the goals of education, communication, faith formation and work among the poor,” said Heather Easterbrook, director of special projects for the foundation.

“The evening commemorates stewardship within the Diocese of Phoenix. It gives us the opportunity to celebrate the commitment and dedication of so many,” she said.

Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. — both formerly of the group the 5th Dimension — will provide the entertainment with their show “It Takes Two,” a musical revue of 1960’s, ’70’s and ’80’s rock and soul duets.

Susie Cole, the 2007 Crozier Gala chairwoman, said picking the entertainment was one of the few perks of her position.

“I’ve just always liked the 5th Dimension,” she explained.

Foundation’s beneficiaries

Cole said that the amount of money raised by the gala differs from year to year, but is usually around $150,000. She hopes to reach that amount this year, so that the foundation can continue to fund Catholic agencies.

Cole noted Maggie’s Place, St. Joseph the Worker and the 48 Catholic schools and parishes that receive aid each year from the Catholic Community Foundation.

“How could you ever not want to be part of an organization that donates to such wonderful places like that?” Cole asked.

Tickets are $300 per person and can be purchased on the Catholic Community Foundation’s Web site at www.ccfphx.org/crozier.htm, or by calling (602) 354-2400.