Hilda du Toit, Marketing Manager for Abraham Kriel says: “This glamorous evening is hosted each year to raise funds for the nurturing and development of children in need. Table sponsorships are secured and we also have an auction, which was overseen by Thys the Bosveldklong this year.”

Arnold Geerdts surprised guests as Master of Ceremonies in an the entertaining pilot role for the event. The gala evening included a five star dinner and entertainment by the children as well as local celebrities such as Nianell, Bianca le Grange and Mean Mr Mustard. Other celebrities attending the event included the Lions rugby team, Miss SA, Nicole Flint, Jason Hartman and Binnelanders Sub Judice and 7de Laan actors, to name a few. A total group of 70 stars supported the project.

Abraham Kriel Childcare is an organisation which was established in 1902 and currently has 820 children in its care. “All the funds generated from this event is utilised for the education of these children,” explains Du Toit. “We provide residential care for children who have been traumatised, abandoned, orphaned or neglected. We also provide care for children in different communities, who have been affected by HIV/AIDS, by means of home-based care and drop-in centres.”

“The evening was a great success, raising R430 000 from table sponsorships, pledges, the auction and raffle sales. We look forward to our next ‘Evening with the Stars’ in 2011,” concludes Du Toit.