New Vista’s 2018 gala, Havana Nights, officially launched the Las Vegas-based organization’s Youth Initiative, a campaign to actively address the alarming challenges plaguing Nevada’s children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in the foster care system. The Cuban-themed extravaganza honored and celebrated Jim Blasco, stalwart of the Southern Nevada community, champion of Nevada’s IDD community, philanthropist, and medical cannabis industry leader.
New Vista is a non-profit provider of Supported Living Arrangements and other programs for children and adults with IDD that promote independence, confidence and self-advocacy, giving members opportunities to live life to the fullest.
The Youth Initiative brings to the forefront the staggering statistics and the monumental issues local children with IDD in foster care experience, which is an estimated 897 local children. New Vista has a long history of responding to the greatest needs of the most vulnerable members of the Las Vegas community, with over 30 years of service and advocacy of the IDD population. The gala raised awareness and funding for this new foster care program with 100% of the proceeds benefitting the campaign.
The evening, emceed by John Di Domenico, was a whirlwind of excitement, which included endless Taittinger Champagne, silent auction items, jewelry designed by New Vista’s members, along with members performing to a 12-piece Latin orchestra.
The launch of the Youth Initiative at Havana Nights served as an opportunity for attendees to pledge their financial support and answer the call on behalf of Nevada’s children. This monumental effort requires the attention of the Las Vegas community, in support of the most vulnerable among us. For more information about New Vista, please visit their website: www.newvistanv.org.
Eve Dawes, New Vista volunteer and philanthropist, fitness model and founder of FitnessByEve and coming soon Dawes Cosmetics.