Ever since Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines and devastated thousands of people in surrounding areas of Tacloban city, people from around the world have been chipping in to send aid for the victims. Agnes Higley, my pageant director, along with other Filipino Utahns have been working non-stop during the last few years to organize a fundraiser, from collecting donations to hosting a benefit dinner. I got an opportunity to help out at the dinner by collecting raffle tickets. The turnout was great! We even ran out of places to sit for the guests!
One of our special guests was Angelica Galindez, Miss Philippines Water USA 2014. What a great person to have at this event since she's Filipino and she represents water! She's a unique individual because even though she has alopecia (a condition that causes her immune system to eat her hair follicles), she proves that pageant queens don't look like one specific mold.
The food was delicious! I gobbled it up so fast that if I didn't take a picture, I would've forgotten what I ate!
Our emcee for the night did such a great job!
These ballroom dance performers did so great even though they only had a small space to work with!
Jack Chen represented the Utah Taiwanese community to donate $2,000 to the fundraiser! Thank you so much, Jack!
The lovely owners of Kobe Royal Garden Restaurant were so gracious to let us use their space!
Absolutely wonderful to see a lot of familiar faces and a great turnout for this amazing cause! I enjoyed the people, food, and entertainment. We must always remember that while we sit in our comfortably heated homes with ample food and clothing, there are others who don't even have shelter for reasons they cannot control. Helping hands is what makes the world go 'round. Very proud of everyone for their collaborative efforts to assist the Philippines!
