​Just this month, I was invited to a “drive-by” baby shower.  With all the drive-by activities happening during this unusual time we’re living through, what a wonderful way to create a “virtual”, yet in-person event to celebrate the birth of a youngster who will forever be tied to this incredible year.
 
Drive-by graduations.  Drive-by parades of teachers to visit in-person, yet virtually, with their students.  A way to connect, even if the hugs aren’t readily available.  A way to virtually remain a part of the lives of those you care about.  One of the inventions of this unprecedented year that reflects the unbreakable spirit of people, even in the face of great obstacles.
 
And in this year of facing obstacles, the Severna Park Community Center has seen months of closure, cancellations, costly repairs, and a slow struggle to find our way back to this new “normal”.  Struggles like repairing a pool during a time when available funds were stretched to their very limit.  Struggles, just like everyone is facing now.
 
And so we wondered.  How could we host an in-person gala this fall, our biggest fundraiser of the year, and ensure that everyone was still safe, in a time of COVID?  Our annual event, normally hosted for more than 200, would need to wait until spring.
 
But with the center closed for so many months, this fundraiser was needed more than ever.  Therefore, following on the lead of many “drive-by” events across our region and around the world, SPCC has launched what we believe is the first-ever Drive-By Gala event, scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2020.
 
Because at the end of the day, we need those funds to operate.  But even more, we really need to connect once again with our many friends in the region.  Guests to the event will come in their cars and stop just briefly to be met at SPCC’s entrance with a gala-in-a-box, delivered by safely masked special guest presenters, dressed to impress in full gala attire.
 
And because a gala fundraiser should be FUN - live music, decorations, paparazzi, and much more will greet guests as they arrive.  More than a fundraiser, this event will provide us with a way to connect, from six feet, with those who haven’t been able to make it back yet.  We can’t wait to see you!  Even if it’s just for a drive-by.
 
Sarah Elder
Executive Director
Severna Park Community Center