“Back Together…and it feels so good” Gala Raises Over $1.5 Million for Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services

Seven Acres “Back Together…and it feels so good” 2023 Gala was the first opportunity in three years for supporters to come together in-person to raise funds while enjoying an unforgettable evening in the ballroom of the Hilton Americas Houston. The gala honored community leaders Susie and Scott Bender with the Joyce Proler Schechter Spirit of Life Award for their many years of service and support of the Houston community and Seven Acres. The event which was held on Sunday, January 29, raised more than $1.5 million for the care of the elderly who reside at Seven Acres.

During the cocktail hour, more than 650 guests mingled and bid on fabulous gift items at the big board silent auction and a raffle of luxury items. They also tried their luck at a gift card tree and spirit pull where they blindly chose gift certificates for fine dining or pulled a number for a fine wine or spirit. While shopping and visiting, guests were able enjoy a variety of martinis available at a standing martini bar, as well as sip champagne offered by a “champagne girl” who walked among the crowd. Dinner and dancing to the Mango Punch band followed as well as the award presentation.

Seven Acres Board members Steve Estrin and his wife, Denise, and Robert Caplan and his wife, Alyse, co-chaired Back Together. Honorary chairs were Bebe and John Falik. Auction chair was Diane Kaminsky.

In a complete surprise to the crowd, the Joyce Proler Schechter Spirit of Life Award was introduced by Susie and Scott Bender’s six grandchildren, ages four through ten who each came to the podium to tell the guests what their grandparents mean to them. “Good evening,” began Jack, the eldest. “It is our pleasure to introduce you to our grandparents, Susie and Scott Bender. We are their biggest fans and are very proud of them today and every day. We also want to thank you for recognizing them this evening.” The children were followed by Seven Acres CEO Barry Goldstein and President Michael Feinstein who presented the Spirit of Life award.

Rejoicing in the success of the 2023 gala, Michael Feinstein remarked, “We have been receiving so many accolades on our 2023 Gala. We are hearing from all who attended that, not only was this one of the most financially successful galas that we have held, but it was by far the most fun! What a wonderful way to enter our 80th year of service to the elderly and elder disabled of the Texas Gulf coast.”