The Black and White Ball began as a shared vision between co-founders Tami Thomas-Leonetti and Cherie Reynolds, created as a third-party fundraiser in partnership with the Ottawa Business Builders Group (OBB). For years, OBB had proudly supported Starved Rock Regional Center through monetary donations, but we believed there was an opportunity to make an even greater impact.
At the time, our community no longer had a formal event that brought people together to celebrate while supporting a meaningful cause. With a passion for both the mission and the experience—paired with a background in formal wear—the idea for a revitalized, elegant evening quickly took shape.
In 2010, the inaugural Black and White Ball welcomed approximately 120 guests and raised $7,000 in support of the Center. Over the next five years, the event continued to grow in both attendance and impact. By 2014, the Ball hosted 270 attendees and raised an incredible $20,000. That same year, past ambassadors from 2010 through 2013 returned to be honored alongside the 2014 ambassador, making it a truly special celebration of community and commitment.
As a third-party event, the Ottawa Business Builders Group covered expenses and secured sponsorships while working closely with Center leadership to ensure its success. Once the event was well-established and sustainable, it was proudly transitioned to become an official event of Starved Rock Regional Center following the 2014 Ball.
At the time, our community no longer had a formal event that brought people together to celebrate while supporting a meaningful cause. With a passion for both the mission and the experience—paired with a background in formal wear—the idea for a revitalized, elegant evening quickly took shape.
In 2010, the inaugural Black and White Ball welcomed approximately 120 guests and raised $7,000 in support of the Center. Over the next five years, the event continued to grow in both attendance and impact. By 2014, the Ball hosted 270 attendees and raised an incredible $20,000. That same year, past ambassadors from 2010 through 2013 returned to be honored alongside the 2014 ambassador, making it a truly special celebration of community and commitment.
As a third-party event, the Ottawa Business Builders Group covered expenses and secured sponsorships while working closely with Center leadership to ensure its success. Once the event was well-established and sustainable, it was proudly transitioned to become an official event of Starved Rock Regional Center following the 2014 Ball.
2026- Black and White Ball- The Greatest Showman Themed
2025- Great Gatsby Gala |
2023-Dine, Dance, Donate |
2022- Wine, Dine, Donate2018- Walk the Red Carpet |
2020- Night in Paris |
