Poster-sized pictures of smiling patients who received major surgeries, treatment and eyeglasses during NOMMS missions were on display throughout the 16th “Mission Possible Gala,” which honored individual and corporate supporters of the organization’s critical medical work.
Archbishop Gregory Aymond delivered the invocation during the Patron Party. Dr. Thomas Kennedy, Medical Director and Board Member, emceed and made introductions of the Board of Directors of NOMMS in addition to presenting the awards.
The was presented to Neil McAskill for his many volunteer activities including assisting in the assembly of donated items as well as the eyeglass clinic and his participation in numerous missions.
Corporate Generosity Sponsor Awards were presented to Jackie and Julie Martello with Pax Sterile Processing for assisting with the sterilization of medical packs taken on missions and Lisa Harper of RSL Blunt Productions for their generous donations during our mission trips as well as the Gala.
This year’s Gala was dedicated to NOMMS former CEO, founder and loving friend, Frederick J. Mikill II. Fred was one of the founders of the mission and has been a positive part of the organization since its beginning. Fred passed away earlier this year and is deeply missed by all.
The Louisiana Spice Band entertained as guests dined from selections from The Impastatos, Texas Roadhouse, Maison Creole, Truck Farm Taverns, The Chicory and desserts from Ambrosia Bakery, Swiss Bakery, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Nola Snow Snoballs, Roman Candy, Gambino’s and more. Four silent auction tables included more than 300 items of interest including art, jewelry and gift certificates for restaurants and hotels. There was also a live auction, presented by The Black-Tie Auctioneer Chuck Mutz.
Lisa Calongne served as Gala Chair. Dr. and Mrs. R. Daniel Jacob, Ms. Joan Gisevius Johnson, Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Kennedy, Mr. and Mrs. David Richards and Karl Senner, LLC returned as Gold Sponsors. Other notable returning sponsors this year were Crescent Bank, Hydra Force, LLC, Financial Risk Mitigation, Inc. and Mr. & Mrs. Eric Tanzberger. 300 guests were in attendance.
Event at a Glance
What: “Mission Possible Gala,” benefiting New Orleans Medical Missions Service
When: Saturday, June 23
Where: Generations Hall
Dr. Thomas Kennedy with Corporate Generosity Sponsor Honorees Julie and Jackie Martello
Gala Chair Lisa Calongne, Kristie McConnell and Kimberly Calongne Tara
