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Overwhelming generosity was the heartwarming highlight of the fourth annual Tori’s Angels Gala, held on Saturday, Oct. 14, in Panora, Iowa. The organization raised more than $150,000 – enough money to fund the necessary expenses for the 100-plus Tori’s Angels families it presently supports for the next six months. 

The 235 people who attended the “Angels in Denim” gala enthusiastically supported both a silent and a live auction. Foundation executive director, Julie Dent-Zajicek, recognized the Tori’s Angels sponsored families in attendance and made a special presentation to Bill and Connie Ridgley, who were honored for the strong foundation they established for Tori’s Angels, and for their continued support of the organization.  

Attendees heard inspiring stories from Angel families during the event and had an opportunity to “Fund a Child,” which was met with incredible support. Shawna and Matt Gunn (parents of Savannah), and Mike Maurer (father of Alex), shared their appreciation for Tori’s Angels. In addition, Panora natives and recipients of Tori’s Angels funding, Emma Reinhart, daughter of Steph and Troy Reinhart; and Liberty Ashworth, daughter of Jen Jensen and Tim Ashworth, provided heartfelt messages that resonated with the audience. 

Since 2010, Tori’s Angels has been raising funds to pay medical expenses not covered by insurance from the date of sponsorship until the child’s 19th birthday. This includes travel expenses to treatment (airfare, mileage, hotel, meals), as well as prescriptions, medical co-pays and deductibles. The foundation depends on the generosity of community “Angels” to help relieve the financial burden for these families.   

Anyone wishing to help the Tori’s Angels children is invited to send donations to Tori’s Angels at PO Box 186, Panora IA 50216. Online donation options are located on the foundation’s website, www.torisangels.org, and on the Facebook page, www.facebook/torisangels. The organization also welcomes anyone interested in becoming a volunteer: Please leave a message at admin@torisangels.org.