IYRS Gala breaks fund-raising records
NEWPORT, R.I. – A record-breaking total of $650,000 was raised for the International Yacht Restoration School last week when the Newport school and title sponsor Lexus hosted the Tenth Annual IYRS Summer Gala, IYRS said in a release earlier this week.
Nearly 500 gala-goers gave generously during a sit-down dinner, dancing, and live and silent auctions. The funds raised at the Gala represent a record for this annual event and a 33 percent increase over the amount raised last year.
World-class sailor and journalist Gary Jobson served as the master of ceremonies for a live auction. The auction included items such as an IYRS-restored Manhasset Bay One Design sailboat and once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunities, such as an invitation to join Ted Turner, Jobson, and the Courageous crew at a dinner at the America’s Cup Hall of Fame to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the crew’s Cup win.
“I have never seen so much synergy at a fundraising event, with such strong support for the work of a single nonprofit from so many different people,” said Co-Chair Carol O’Malley. “We have many individuals to thank: our sponsors and supporters, those who gave so generously, those who donated auction items and volunteered, and the fine team at IYRS.”
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