MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 24, 2019 – The 21st annual SRVS Sparkling Nights premier auction, food and wine tasting gala will be held Saturday, Aug. 17, from 6:30–11:30 p.m., at Hilton Memphis, 939 Ridge Lake Blvd.
The event has raised more than $2 million since its inception in 1999 as a fundraiser to support SRVS programs. The founding of Sparkling Nights, originally called the Spirit of SRVS, grew out of conversations between SRVS board member John Barzizza and SRVS staff. The idea was to raise money and awareness for the nonprofit.
Sparkling Nights has grown considerably in the past 20 years, with the first event attracting approximately 90 people and raising $10,000. Today, Sparkling Nights is SRVS’ largest fundraiser and attracts more than 700 attendees and raises an average of $200,000 each year. In 2018, a record $224,395 was raised. Funds from Sparkling Nights support SRVS programs that include children’s services, residential supports and employment.
“As a non-profit organization committed to helping others, the people we support rely on your contributions so SRVS can continue to provide services that people with disabilities need to live meaningful lives as members of their community,” said SRVS board member and Sparkling Nights chairwoman Jerilyn Hayward.
Each year an original painting is commissioned by a local artist to be auctioned at Sparkling Nights. The 2019 painting, “Success in the City,” is by artist Michael Maness. The painting includes handprints of people SRVS supports scattered around a heart with the skyline of Memphis serving as a backdrop. Maness’ artwork is often displayed and sold around Memphis and the mid-south.