The theme for this annual semi-formal event is a “Salute to the Diamonds and Pearls” (The girls and ladies in our lives). We are reaching out and asking men to bring their daughters, mother, sisters, aunts, girlfriend, grandmother, friends or even the first lady of their church and treat her to a special evening with a charitable purpose.

The 2011 exciting event was held at the Chesapeake Marriott Hotel in Chesapeake, Virginia where it featured dinner, dancing, entertainment, silent auction, and a live auction. It was a ticketed event with net proceeds to support Youth Matter Inc.’s after-school programs for young people of all ages.

Wilheimina Long, Founder of Youth Matter Inc. said that “during difficult times, people want to find time to enjoy themselves, and they also want to be able to help others in their community. The gala is a way for people to do both and support our programs, and with the economy the way it is, it's needed more than ever.” She also said “the gala is especially important since donations are down because of the struggling economy, and due to the recent media focus on youth violence, raising funds to support much-needed after-school programs is not optional, but mandatory in our communities.”

Youth Matter, Inc. is also hopeful that they can raise funds to support its initiative TROOPS TO YOUTH® as it focus on reducing childhood obesity and developing productive lifestyles for young people, with the aid of military men and women, as well as concerned civilians.

The Mistress of Ceremonies for the 2011 event was Crystal Brickhouse Miss Chesapeake 2011, and the Guest Speaker was Jasmine Young. Entertainment included a performance by “Out of the Box” Mime, Jase Rae Pickett Violinist, Andolyn Medina Vocalist, Double-Annointed, and DJ Ecko.

Youth Matter Inc.'s 2012 BLACK & WHITE GALA will be held on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2012 at the Chesapeake Marriott, Chesapeake, VA.

You can purchase your tickets NOW online by clicking here or call our office at (757) 686-8181 for tickets, You can also email us at youthmatter@msn.com. Get your tickets to assure a seat at this annual event.