On September 28, 2024, Maryland Chapter Gold Star Moms Donna Robinson, Paula Davis, Janice Chance, Stephanie White and their guests attended the AUSA 20th Annual Fisher House Gala fundraiser. It was held at Water’s Edge Event Center in Belcamp, MD. The first gala was held at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, with which over 360 guests attended. On behalf of the Major General (MG) Harry Greene Chapter, Bob Gutjahr, President welcomed everyone to the Gala. Since 2004, the Monmouth and Aberdeen Communities have staged this event in support of the Fisher House Foundation. The Foundation raises funds that enables comfort homes to be built that are placed near major military and VA medical centers. There are currently 99 Fisher Homes, almost reaching a goal of 100 homes. Since its inception, the Foundation has saved military and veteran’s families an estimated $525 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation for military and veteran’s families. Families stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving critical care. There were 54 sponsors for the event this evening. The AUSA Fundraiser committee selected “The Roaring 20’s” as their theme this year; therefore, many of the attendees wore attire from the 20’s decade. Guests also feasted on different foods that would be found from that era as well as many finger foods and desserts. Guests were also entertained with great music. An auction was held along with raffle drawings for 19 Gift Baskets. The Maryland Gold Star Mothers Chapter donated two beautiful gift baskets. The two baskets were a “Party like Gatsby Theme” Auction basket with a monetary value of $375.00 and “Fall Coziness” Auction basket with a monetary value of $300.00 created by Maryland Gold Star Mother, Lauren Seidler. Attending the fundraiser was a wonderful way to support our heroes and their families. Next year’s Fisher House Fundraiser event will be held on September 20, 2025 with a “Red White & Blue BBQ” theme.
