MOUNTAIN LAKES BOROUGH, NJ (Morris County) – Sound Start Foundation, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children born deaf or hard of hearing in New Jersey, has announced its highly anticipated Annual Black Tie (Optional) Gala, set to take place Thursday, May 9 at 7:00 p.m. at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes Borough.
This prestigious event promises an evening of elegance, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The Gala serves as a cornerstone event for Sound Start Foundation to provide resources for early intervention, family-support, and nursery programs, regardless of a family’s ability to pay, to children born deaf or hard of hearing in New Jersey.
Now in its 27th year, the Gala brings together supporters, donors, and advocates to celebrate and raise crucial funds to support the foundation’s programs.
Attendees can look forward to an evening consisting of a cocktail hour, wine pull, sit down dinner, entertainment, and exciting silent and live auctions featuring exclusive items and experiences. The Gala will also highlight the impact of Sound Start Foundation’s initiatives, honor Jed A. Kwartler, MD, who is recognized for his career-long devotion to advancements in the field of otology and neurotology, and host Kris Martin to deliver a keynote speech, an esteemed NASCAR race car driver and motivational speaker who was born deaf and overcame hearing loss.
“I travel all over the world to speak with kids to tell them they can do anything they want to do no matter the obstacle. I want to motivate young people to follow their dreams, even if it is outside of racing,” said Kris Martin. “Racing gave me the confidence to excel in all things in life. My goal is to show others that they can have the same opportunity.”
The Annual Black Tie (Optional) Gala is a testament to the unwavering commitment of Sound Start Foundation’s supporters to make a difference in the lives of deaf and hard of hearing children and their families throughout the state of New Jersey.
Sound Start Foundation provides up to 65% of the funding needed to run the Sound Start Babies Program, with a minimum 2024 goal of $750,000. Proceeds from the Gala will directly benefit the foundation’s mission to support educational and therapeutic programs to help babies and toddlers with hearing loss.
To learn more about Sound Start Foundation, purchase tickets to the Gala, or become a sponsor, visit: www.soundstartfdn.org.
