Side by Side Dinner Celebrates Portland Promise Center

Over 300 guests gathered at Christ Church United Methodist in Louisville on May 19 for the Side by Side Dinner. The annual event is a celebration of the work of the Portland Promise Center as well as a fundraiser. More than 30 volunteers helped make the dinner a success.

The evening began with a silent auction featuring such items as jewelry, art, and gardening tools. Before dinner was served, guests were welcomed by Promise Center Executive Director Rev. Dr. Larry Stoess. Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer was on hand and also greeted the crowd.

The program following dinner included testimony from Trina Duke, who participates in programs and attends worship at the Promise Center, and singing by some of the children from the center. There was a live auction of several interesting items, including stays at vacation homes and a wonderful re-creation of a Van Gogh painting using duct tape.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Caleb and Johsua Award honoring Kay Groff and Wanda Horton. The two have developed an amazing friendship as a result of their initial tutoring and mentoring relationship at the center. You can view an inspiring video about these two women here.