Nonprofit In The Oranges Takes Annual Fundraiser Online For 2021

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — An East Orange-based nonprofit that helps to empower disadvantaged students in Essex County is gearing up for its annual spring gala, and it plans to have U.S. Sen. Cory Booker as a special guest.

The Dorson Community Foundation recently announced that for the first time, it will be holding its annual Spring Splendor Gala Fundraiser virtually, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 10, and will take place in honor of its High School Rising Scholars of the Dorson Scholars Program.

Gala tickets can be purchased here.

Hopefully, the fundraiser will help make up for donations lost in 2020, after the nonprofit was forced to cancel its 2020 in-person gala due to the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers said.

According to a news release from the foundation:

“Beginning with an intimate VIP Wine Tasting Reception hosted by GlenLyon Vineyards and Winery and the Program Opener, Lenny Green, Host of ‘The Quiet Storm’ on 107.5 WBLS, the Gala Fundraiser will be a special virtual and noteworthy experience for attendees. The Spring Splendor gala will be a celebration of Dorson’s dynamic work with Essex County students on their path to college and career success. The VIP Wine Tasting will transport guests to the vineyards of Sonoma Valley, California without leaving the comfort of their homes. VIP guests will receive a complimentary gift box of wines, chocolate and cheese for an interactive tasting hosted by the winery’s owners, Suzy and Squire Fridell, who have been creating quality wines for over 30 years.”

The foundation continued:

“A dynamic keynote speaker and thought leader, Robyn Hatcher, will be the Gala Emcee and the main Program will open with Lenny Green, host of ‘The Quiet Storm’ on 107.5 WBLS, and U.S. Senator Cory Booker, will make a guest appearance to salute the rising scholars. Attendees will hear success stories from Dorson’s current and past scholars, enjoy a special performance by two-time Grammy nominees Alphabet Rockers, known as a premiere children’s hip hop group, who focus on social change and racial justice, a fashion show by Newark-based designer Tyrone Chablis of Chablis Designs, and an online silent auction featuring luxury goods and virtual experiences. The silent auction will go live only for ticket holders on Tuesday, April 6 and close at the end of the gala on Saturday, April 9.”

According to the nonprofit, Dorson’s Champion of Access and Opportunity Award will be presented to Tenna, a tech company based in Edison, and its CEO, Austin Conti, to honor them for their commitment to improve access and success for youth in Essex County through their summer internship partnership benefiting students of the Dorson Scholars Program.

“Working with Tenna, scholars are able to deepen their understanding of STEM careers while gaining professional work experience,” the nonprofit stated.

“Our gala is the most important fundraising event of the year and we invite everyone looking to support our youth from underserved communities to join us for a toast and a salute to our Rising Scholars,” said Natasha Scott, Dorson’s executive director.

Dorson thanks sponsors and supporters PSE&G, GlenLyon Vineyards & Winery, Tenna, Lenny Green’s “The Quiet Storm” on 107.5 WBLS, Alphabet Rockers and Chablis Designs.

This story is part of Patch's Headlining Hope series, which profiles local nonprofits and charitable organizations in need of volunteers and resources. If you know about a local organization that should be profiled, contact eric.kiefer@patch.com

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