2020 Virtual Event: A Supporter’s Perspective

Submitted by David Sallard

“Cynthia and I have been supporters of AlphaCare since moving to New Jersey in 2005 and have attended the AlphaCare banquets for many years. With all of the COVID-19 restrictions and cancellations, we were excited to hear that AlphaCare was able to put together a ‘virtual’ event this year. With the new and unfamiliar format, we wanted to do what we could to make this fundraising endeavor as successful as possible. But how?

The idea of a ‘Watch Party’ appealed to us. After our initial thought of having multiple small gatherings in various homes was proposed, additional feedback led us to pursue holding a larger Watch Party at our church. While I had a very simplistic idea, focused mainly on audio and video concerns, Cynthia had a much more advanced aesthetic vision (and decorating skills to match). She and many hands at our church created the lovely event we held at Grace Presbyterian Church in Mt. Laurel, NJ. Our church’s Fellowship Hall and outdoors “appetizer tent” were beautifully decorated, the food was excellent, and a wonderful time was enjoyed by all.”

We are so grateful to the Sallards for their efforts to host the Watch Party. We are likewise thankful to everyone who watched the virtual event and shared it with friends, family members and acquaintances. The video is still available if you missed it or can think of others to whom you would like to introduce this vital ministry. We praise God for the two client stories that were shared, the visionary plans for the future that were unveiled and the benediction provided in the unique pastoral prayer.

Does this last name sound familiar to you? If so, it’s because Gabrielle, the daughter of David and Cynthia, served for 18 months as our Ultrasound Assistant before she headed to Baylor College of Medicine in Houston this summer.