Student-run gala helps change the world

By Nicole Davis

U of C health sciences student Brianna Butchart is on a mission to save the world—one country at a time. For the second year in a row, her event-planning efforts will raise money to help 1,000 families in more than 50 developing countries.

International Lights is spearheaded by Butchart and students belonging to the University of Calgary Student Ambassadors. The event will raise funds for Gems of Hope, a Canadian-based charity whose mandate is to advance the standard of living for marginalized women in developing countries by providing “micro” business loans.

In 2006, the inaugural International Lights gala raised more than $15,000 for Doctors Without Borders.

“It really is a testament to the people of the university community that we all really want to make a difference in the world,” says Butchart.

The gala will be held on Saturday, March 1 at the Elbow Springs Golf Club. The fundraising goal this year is $20,000. Tickets are $150 each; a table of eight costs $1,000.

Guests will be treated to a silent auction, an interactive “funny money” casino, a formal dinner and dance with live music by the Johnny Summers big band.

For tickets and to RSVP, contact Butchart at (403) 616-8387.