(KNSI) – This year, the INDY Foundation’s Bowties and Arrows Gala was a smashing success, bringing in over $247,000 for the local nonprofit.
The event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the group. It includes a photo opportunity on the red carpet before guests go inside for social hour. The dinner kicked off at 7:00 p.m. with a live auction and more included in its hour-long program. Finally, there was dancing, thanks to live entertainment from the band Mason Dixon Line.
The 2025 gala, which took place at the Park Event Center in Waite Park, was sold out ahead of time. Next year’s outing will be on Saturday, March 28th.
The INDY Foundation has several different initiatives. It was started to honor Kyle Strand by his widow after he died from terminal cancer. Kyle was a carpenter, so the INDY Foundation sponsors a scholarship for students to get a degree in the trades.
The organization has an emergency fund that helps with gas and groceries for those undergoing cancer treatment. INDY hands out $1,000 checks to two people each month during their fight with cancer. It also sponsors a retreat program that hosts cancer warriors at Grand View Lodge.
Its first program was backpacks. Kyle brought his to every chemotherapy and treatment session. The backpacks are loaded with essential items and anything that can be a convenience during a trying time. They are handed out by area hospitals and cancer centers.
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