2023 Fraser Gala, presented by Meristem | Cresset

On Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, attendees of the Fraser Gala, presented by Meristem | Cresset, truly got to have their cake and eat it too. The gala was at Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot, and guests were led on a magical adventure through the whimsical world of Candy Land.

Kat Perkins wowed guests with her mashup of “Pure Imagination/Candyman,” along with her fabulous band, candy-coated dancers, and backing vocals from the Paul Peterson Orchestra. Longtime gala performer Leo Dworsky was a sweet surprise, joining Kat and Paul on stage for “Hold My Hand.” Enticing Entertainment further frosted the night with a cotton candy cocktail dress server and peppermint dancers. Sheletta Brundidge returned as emcee and shared her family’s journey with autism, highlighting the importance of Fraser’s sensory support services.

At the after-party, guests enjoyed King Kandy’s Candy Bar, Gloopy S’mores, Queen Frostine’s Nitro Ice Cream Sandwiches, an assortment of truffles with cordials, and more delicious music from Kat Perkins. But the real cherry on top was the funds raised for the individuals and families Fraser serves.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and other donors, Fraser raised over $640,000. It's not too late, you can still donate! The funds will provide access to:

• Whole-person care that is both inclusive and culturally-responsive
• Faster access to treatment
• Care coordinators providing continuous, wrap-around support throughout an individual’s treatment journey
• Integrating services with primary care, healthcare providers, and community agencies to ensure our clients have the best opportunity to succeed
• Expanded levels of service for psychiatric mental health and medication management, establishing resources and referral links for better crisis intervention, and meeting the co-occurring mental health and substance use needs of people with mental health disorders and neurodiversity
• Medical staff nursing, additional psychiatric mental health practitioners, and community outreach to coordinators
• Intensive autism care services through Fraser Autism Center of Excellence ® satellite locations, early childhood education success and inclusion through Fraser School®, and supportive housing and career support through Community Living and Career Planning & Employment services

Thank you again to everyone who volunteered, donated, sponsored, and attended the event. Because of you, Fraser can meet the increasing need for autism, mental health, and disability services in our community. We can’t wait to see again next year on Fri., Nov. 1, 2024!

View photos from the event here.

View photos from the Mirror Me Perfect photobooth here.