YAD Event Promises an Evening of Roaring ’20s Glamour, Fun

New Orleans comes to Louisville at this year’s YAD Annual Event January 24 at the Ice House.

Billy Goat Strut Revue, a Louisville band that channels New Orleans jazz, but with a Kentuckian’s mode de vie, will play the event. The band plays a fun and exciting original style of music that will keep attendees dancing all evening.

The event is a fundraiser for the Jewish Federation of Louisville 2015 Campaign, said Hilary Zappin, Federation senior development associate. “It’s a chance for future leaders to make a powerful and impactful difference in the community and to network,” she said.

The theme of the evening is the Roaring ’20s – think “The Great Gatsby” and the like. “This is the first time we’ve had a theme,” said Seth Gladstein, event co-chair. “It’s part of an effort to paint with a broad brush and relate to all the members of YAD, whether they be parents with small children or young people straight out of college.”

Gladstein said it’s not only a fun event; it’s an opportunity to be active in the community. “It’s a stepping stone for those who want to get involved and be a leader in the Jewish community and to ensure that there’s a Jewish community in the future,” he said. “If someone wants to get involved they should not only give money, but also attend events.”

Zappin and Gladstein both said they are looking forward to a big crowd. “We are hoping to have the largest amount of participation by this division,” Zappin said. “Even the smallest gift makes a difference.”

The Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence made the Ice House available for the event, and the Federation provided a substantial budget for the event to allow the committee to create the kind of event that will increase engagement with and participation of attendees.

“It’s the first time that I can recall that we’ve gotten a large budget from the Federation to put toward the event, allowing us to focus on the fund-raising,” Gladstein said. “We’re very thankful for that.”

YAD is for Jewish adults ages 21-45, but all are welcome to attend this campaign event. Cost is $36, or $18 for those 30 and younger. Event chairs are Gladstein and Hunter Weinberg. Dress is Gatsby-inspired cocktail attire. For more information, visit Jewishlouisville.org/federation.

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