That Takes the Cake

Details: 16 September 2011

I’m elated to announce that the second annual "That Takes the Cake, a Frosted Fundraiser" for St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes will be held Sunday, Oct. 16, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Pius X High School, 6000 A St., Lincoln. All the proceeds will be used to help women across the diocese who are escaping domestic violence and abortion.

As many know, St. Gianna’s has two locations: a 24-apartment site complete with a chapel dedicated to St. Gianna, and a three-bedroom home staffed by the Marian Sisters of the Diocese of Lincoln. They are assisted by a group of dedicated volunteers, wonderful ladies who are indispensable to our mission.

Our equally-dedicated board members of St. Gianna’s, mostly women, have been working hard planning this year’s event. Like last year, there are two divisions for entering cakes and more - professional and celebrity. I mention ‘more’ because this year, under the professional category, those entering may bake and decorate a cake, cupcakes, or a gingerbread home.

Those who attended last year were amazed at the incredible cakes entered. Words here are inadequate to describe them. All of these works of art will be auctioned off in a silent auction so they can be taken home, shown off, and eaten!

During the event, there will be a cake walk with incredible cakes and other items to take home. For those present last year, remember how much fun that was? In addition, there will be a cake-decorating demonstration and a cake-eating station where those attending may consume complimentary cake and refreshments courtesy of our sponsors!

There are a number of corporate sponsorship opportunities available: The Event Sponsor at $5,000; The Icing on the Cake Sponsor at $2,500; That Takes the Cake Sponsor at $1,000; and The Bakers Dozen Sponsor at $500.

For those busy celebrities in need of someone to bake their cakes, you’re in luck. For $100 we will find someone to do the baking and decorating. They can also customize the decorating to fit your ‘celebrity theme.’

Last year, I jokingly said, "real men make their own cakes!" and decided to make my grandmother Margaret’s super secret spice cake. I remember calling my mother and telling her, "Now mom, I really need to do this myself!" When I arrived at mom’s house, the cake was already in the oven.... Needless to say, I decorated it myself which was obvious to all, which garnered a lot of mercy votes. In the end, I was told that it tasted great.

Admission is $5 per person and $25 per family. Tickets are available at Catholic Social Services (located at 2241 O Street) during regular business hours and at the door the day of the event. For more information you may contact John McDermott at Catholic Social Services at 402-474-1600 or Deb Schulte at 402-217-0655 or 402-489-7326.

Just weeks ago a woman at St. Gianna’s related to the sisters that last year was the worst year of her life, but thanks to St. Gianna’s she now feels happy and safe. I hope to see you there at the event and may God bless you! St. Gianna, pray for us and for the success of this important event which will benefit women and their children in desperate need.