By: Haley Lane

Appalachian Impact is hosting its fourth annual Gala, “A Night in the Secret Garden,” an evening of dancing, music, and auctions, all in support of mentoring for at-risk students in North Central West Virginia.

This year’s Gala will take place on October 25th, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Outpost Event Center in Buckhannon. The evening will offer engaging entertainment, offering guests a magical atmosphere while supporting a vital cause.

Tickets are available for $50 per individual or $90 per couple. Several sponsorship levels are also offered, ranging from Bronze to Platinum, with benefits including reserved table seating, event recognition, logo placement on printed materials and social media, and special VIP experiences.

While the event promises a beautiful evening of entertainment, its purpose runs deeper. Appalachian Impact focuses on mentoring relationships and positive youth programming designed to provide stability, encouragement, and opportunities for students who often face significant challenges. Events like the Gala help fund these initiatives, providing local children and teens access to role models and programs that support academic success, leadership skills, and personal growth.

Sienna Chenoweth, a junior at West Virginia Wesleyan College, has been involved with Appalachian Impact since her freshman year. “Appalachian Impact was my service site for the Wesleyan Service Scholar program,” Chenoweth said. “My service site has since changed, but I’ve come back every year to help with the gala.”

This year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most engaging yet. “We’ve finally figured out what gets the most engagement, so attendees will have so many prizes and games to look forward to,” Chenoweth shared. “There are also more people attending who are familiar with Appalachian Impact’s mission, so the Hope Scholarship fund should continue to grow!”

The impact of the organization’s work, she added, is evident across the community. “From students receiving the Hope Scholarship to coming to Wesleyan for activities through The Adventure After School, the lives of so many students, children, and teens alike, have been touched, and I think that’s beautiful.”

Proceeds from the Gala will support Appalachian Impact’s mission: to offer mentoring, youth leadership development, community service, and after-school enrichment to children and teens in the region.  The Gala offers attendees the opportunity not only to enjoy a beautiful evening but also to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people.For tickets or sponsorship information, visit Appalachian Impact’s Facebook or Instagram page @appimpactwv, or contact julie@appalachianimpact.org.

Photo by: Haley Lane