The Building Dreams 2021 Fall Fiesta fundraiser annually supports Eden House’s long-term recovery program for survivors of human trafficking.

Il Mercato featured colorful decorations, including a wall of vibrant Mardi Gras flowers. The Patron Party portion of the event featured delicious passed hors d’oeuvres, including snapper ceviche, spicy jumbo Gulf shrimp and pork belly.

Under the stars, gala guests danced the night away to festive live music by the Mariachi Jalisco band, brought in from Baton Rouge. Joel’s Catering provided a delicious Mexican food dinner, featuring beef short ribs and jalapeño grits, and Joe Gambino’s Bakery helped celebrate Eden House’s 10-year anniversary.

The keynote address was given by Kenneth A. Polite Jr., Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice. Speeches were also given by Kara Van de Carre, Co-Founder and President of Eden House, and Peggy Babin Indest, Interim Executive Director of Eden House.

Mark Romig facilitated a live auction for a beautiful pair of vintage art deco sapphire and diamond earrings donated by Friend & Company, butterfly artwork by Ashley Longshore and a New Orleans experience donated by Windsor Court, Arnaud’s and Galatoire’s. The Interactive Registry was an evening highlight, as the community came together to provide Eden House residents with vital services, such as mental and physical health and home amenities needed to promote a supportive and safe healing environment for their recovery. Custom India Stewart lotus ornaments were gifted for each purchase.

IBERIABANK | First Horizon served as Presenting Sponsor for the event.

The nonprofit continues to serve survivors by providing the following services free of cost to all residents, either directly or through their network of community partners: Room & Board, Intensive and Therapeutic Case Management, Trauma Therapy, In-house Group Therapies, Intensive Outpatient Addiction Counseling, Occupational Therapy, Legal Assistance, Healthcare and Dental Care, Educational Resources, Job Skills and Work Experience through Social Enterprise, Financial Resiliency Training and alternative holistic healing services such as yoga, acupuncture and mindfulness.