The Women of Substance Luncheon presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust was a welcome reminder of how community support is important for a person’s road to recovery.
Held May 19 at the Audubon Tea Room, the focus was honoring women and men who support the organization and whose actions made them role models for the women in Grace House’s substance use disorder treatment program.
The 2023 honorees were Rochelle Head-Dunham, M.D., DFAPA, FASAM, Jennifer Holmes and Erica Woodley; while Gregory Romig was bestowed the Richard “Buzzy” Gaiennie Award; Ursuline Academy Aspirational Artists, the Volunteer of the Year Award; Liz Zeretzke, Alumna of the Year Award.
The event also acted as a fundraiser and had silent and live auctions. The live auction featured four lots, including a two-night stay at Skyline Lodge and dinner at Oak Steakhouse in Highlands, N.C. Silent auction favorites included a seven-day stay at a luxury Marriott Resort; “Clearing” painting by Stephen Palmer, donated by Ariodante Gallery; and a hand-carved teak statue of meditating man from Bali.
Guests could also directly purchase items from the Grace House Wish List, including a $20 Walmart gift card, a pizza party and a set of treatment books.
Event chair was Felicia Kleinpeter.
Fun Fact: This was above and beyond the best year for the event, according to Bridge House/Grace House. The event was sold out at 40 tables and 400 in attendance. More than $143,000 was raised.
Allison Skapik, Dr. Rochelle Head-Dunham, Kevin Gardere
Natalie Vitrano, Maureen Cremaldi, Shannon Culotta
Jacob Goldberg, Erica Woodley
Liz Zeretzke, Elizabeth “Liz” Copeland
Greg Romig, Steve Romig
