PLANO, TX – May 8, 2023 – On Saturday, May 6, over 1,000 Dallas/Fort Worth residents gathered at the Hyatt Regency, Dallas alongside adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD) to celebrate fifteen years of Possibilities at the greatly anticipated annual My Possibilities (MP) Community Ball. The anticipation was electrifying, and the excitement was shooting for the stars as we came together to celebrate and support our Hugely Important People (HIPsters) and MP’s shining supporters. The MP staff, alongside their incredible event team and over 80 volunteers, pulled off a stellar evening. Thanks to all the hard work and collaboration over the months leading up to Community Ball, we were over the moon with the results. With record-breaking proceeds, we raised over $635,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships, a silent auction, donations, and more. It's safe to say, we were all stars that night thanks to all of the magical support of our community.

MP provides programs that focus on socialization, vocational and trade training, and independent living skills to Hugely Important People (HIPsters.) These skills equip HIPsters with the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve the life they deserve. My Possibilities’ mission is the relentless pursuit of full, untapped possibilities for all Hugely Important People.

The HIP-starry-Night-themed evening was full of entertainment, fun, and enthusiastic dancing. Prior to the HIPsters’ grand entrance, guests had the opportunity to browse the silent auction, take part in cocktail hour, and enjoy live music from Manhattan Sound. Immediately following, attendees enjoyed a moving performance by our talented HIPster, Christie A., which left everyone on their feet. During the program, emceed by 105.3 The Fan’s very own, Kevin Hageland and Cory Mageors, HIPsters and staff were recognized for their accomplishments and exceptional work, the crowd played a rousing game of Heads or Tails, and Ruth Thompson of Hugs Café was presented the Charmaine Solomon Service Award for her unwavering support and advocacy of providing employment opportunities for the IDD community.

Community Ball Presenting Sponsor, Berry Family Services, is a long-time supporter of MP. Their continued service and generosity have helped give the HIPsters exactly what they deserve: a future. “Berry Family Services has partnered with My Possibilities, and supported Community Ball since it began 15 years ago. We were proud to represent as the Presenting Sponsor for My Possibilities’ 2023 Community Ball. It was a joy to see all the HIPsters on the dance floor decked out in their amazing tuxes, dazzling evening gowns, and glowing smiles. The night didn’t disappoint; and knowing that we were raising funds for such a meaningful cause at the same time made all the difference. Our goal is to help My Possibilities provide HIPsters with exceptional service through growing and innovative programs,” said Katie Beth Massengill, community services manager of Berry Family Services.

Also, a huge thank you to our Event Chairs, Ryan and Lauren Lamb, and our wonderful Community Sponsors Bank of Texas, Bread Financial, C.A. Hartnell, JPMorgan Chase, and Toyota Motor North America.

"Honestly, I’m at a loss for words. It will probably take a few days of reflection to process how amazing the night really was. The Community Ball is always special, but this year it carried extra importance and emotion. The event is not only one of our largest community fundraisers, but also the way we demonstrate inclusion in action, providing our HIPsters the opportunity to enjoy the special evening with our community supporters. Raising well over half a million dollars was an unbelievable achievement for My Possibilities, but seeing the starry-eyed HIPsters on the dance floor again reminded us all why we do what we do," says Michael Thomas, executive director of My Possibilities.

About My Possibilities
My Possibilities is a North Texas for-cause 501(c)(3) organization that serves as a pioneering leader in vocational education for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities throughout North Texas. To learn more, visit mypossibilities.org.

About Berry Family Services
Berry Family Services is a family-owned business that provides resources and energy to serve individuals with disabilities. With more than 40 years combined experience, BFS is dedicated to helping consumers help themselves through services and support designed to meet their individual needs and choices.

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