The chandeliers were glowing, the dance floor was full, and the cause was clear: feeding homebound seniors across LaPorte County. This summer’s Mayor’s Ball returned to Blue Chip Casino’s elegant Stardust Ballroom for an evening of dinner, live music, and fundraising that brought together elected officials, local business owners, and community supporters under one roof.
The annual black-tie event is one of Meals on Wheels LaPorte County’s most anticipated fundraisers. Guests enjoyed a multi-course dinner, bid on silent auction items donated by local shops and businesses — from weekend getaways to restaurant gift cards and handmade goods — and danced to a live band well into the evening. Local officials took the stage to recognize the organization’s impact and the volunteers who make daily meal deliveries possible.
Behind the celebration, the numbers tell a serious story. Meals on Wheels LaPorte County delivers more than 100,000 meals each year to seniors who are homebound, isolated, or unable to prepare their own food. Every meal comes with a wellness check — a volunteer at the door who notices when something isn’t right, when medication has gone unfilled, or when a client simply needs a few minutes of conversation. Events like the Mayor’s Ball are critical to keeping those routes running.
“Nights like this remind us how generous this community truly is. Every ticket purchased, every auction bid placed — it all translates directly into meals on tables and friendly faces at front doors. The outpouring of support at this year’s ball was nothing short of incredible.”
Cheryl Daurer, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels LaPorte County
Proceeds from the Mayor’s Ball go directly toward meal preparation, delivery logistics, and the organization’s kitchen operations. With food and transportation costs continuing to rise, fundraising events have become an increasingly vital piece of the budget puzzle. Government funding and grants cover a portion of operating costs, but private donations and events like the Mayor’s Ball fill the gap that keeps the program whole.
Planning for next year’s event is already underway. If you’d like to attend, sponsor a table, or donate auction items for the next Mayor’s Ball, reach out to our team. And if you can’t wait until then to make a difference, you can donate to Meals on Wheels LaPorte County today or sign up to become a volunteer driver — because every meal matters, and every visit counts.
