Early in 1999, Cindy and Neal Hewitt, Owners of Hillsborough Fashions, along with a Steering Committee comprised of volunteer business persons and individuals committed themselves to donating literally hundreds of hours to seeing that the Gala became a reality. This Committee dedicated themselves to the monumental task of organizing an Annual Wellness Celebration with the goal of attempting to raise a total of $100,000.00 in support of Breast Cancer awareness and education between then and the year 2009.

The fundraising objective for the initial year (1999) was $2,000.00. The Gala included a cocktail function, followed by an evening of multi-faceted entertainment. Many draws were held, including the major draw for a pair of airline tickets. An Auction played an integral role in the event, bringing the final tally of monies raised for the Katherine Wright Wellness Centre (over and above limited expenses) to $7,000.00.

The Audience of 500 proved a far cry from the 200 originally anticipated. Those attending came from as far away as Ontario and Newfoundland.

One of the crowning features of the 1999 Gala was the decision by another retailer (from Charleottetown) to adopt our fundraising idea and develop their own Gala to raise funds for Breast Cancer research in their local area. This gave us an added incentive - the hope to eventually see one retailer in each of the Provinces of Canada undertaking a similar project, under their own name, before our ten years have expired.

Gala 2000

The Goal of the 2000 Gala was to raise $10,000.00 for the Wellness Centre. We exceeded that goal, and were able to raise in excess of $14,000.00 for Breast Cancer awareness and education.

Over 625 ticket holders supported Gala 2000.

The evening included a Reception with hot and cold canapes with wonderful background music provided by the Fundy Chamber Players, performances by several well known Entertainers, a Fashion Show of casual, business and Ladies' and Mens' formal and evening wear, an Auction (conducted by internationally recognized Auctioneer, Steve Liptay) of goods ranging from Artwork to Mini Vacations, plus many more drawings and prizes.

One of our Sponsors, created a Gala Web Site, which relayed information regarding sponsors, donations, prizes, etc.

A Bell Canada Voice Mail System was put in position to relay information regarding Gala 2000.

Over 70 Volunteers contributed hundreds of hours to the Fund Raiser, and an equal number of business from the Greater Moncton Area donated prizes and items for the Auction.

The Katherine Wright Wellness centre has already formulated plans for the initiation of projects in relation to Breast Cancer education among younger women utilizing the funds which have been generated by our Galas.

In 2001 the Hillsborough Fashions Gala raised $24,500.00 in support of the Wellness Centre. These monies were used to provide specialized training for a Breast Health Specialist. The Breast Health Specialist is now employed at the Katherine Wright Wellness Centre on a full-time basis.

In 2002 the Hillsborough Fashions Gala raised $35,000.00 in support of the Wellness Centre. These monies were used to provide support training for a Breast Surgeon. The Breast Surgeon will join us in September 2003.

In 2003 the Hillsborough Fashions Gala raised $50,000.00 in support of the Wellness Centre. Part of these monies were used to establish the Gala Angel Fund. This fund provides financial support for women with breast cancer. Some examples that we provide to women who need financial support includes: bras, wigs, transportation, groceries, etc.

Benefits to Major/Corporate Sponsor(s)

	Exposure is given to sponsors through speakers who visit community groups, local retail organizations and other businesses in support of the Gala
	The generosity of the Major/Corporate Sponsor(s) is highly displayed, as well as a commitment to assist us in the fight against Breast Cancer.
	Sponsors are given high profile exposure all during the course of the evening's presentation.
	Major/Corporate Sponsor(s) are invited to present thamselves to the Audience during the evening's presentation.
	The focus of the evening will be Breast Cancer, and will be a fast paced, upbeat event, emphasizing the many positive things which are occuring in relation to research and the treatment of this dreaded disease. YOU, AS A MAJOR/CORPORATE SPONSOR, will definitely be recognized as playing a very positive role in helping to combat one of the leading causes of death among women.
	We respectfully ask that you consider being an integral part by supporting such a worthwhile venture. Thank You.