United Way Black & White Gala
*Frequently Asked Questions*
 

Quick Tips
CHECK IN EARLY!
Check your Event Guest Portal and store your credit card to skip the check-in line.

 

Why this matters!

Your table number and bidder number will appear in your portal closer to the event.
Pre-checking in saves you from long lines and lets you spend more time enjoying the evening.

All activity through the night will be related to your bidder number linked to the credit card you vault. (you can change final payment at anytime)

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• Doors open at 5:00 PM.

• Prelude to Purpose Cocktail Reception: 5:00PM-7:00PM

• Main Event (Dinner & Live Auction): 7:00–9:00 PM

• After Hours Party: 9:00 PM–midnight.
   

Sponsors with tables:  Please make sure your guests can access the Event Guest Portal and check in before arrival. (You will receive the link for the SPONSOR PORTAL where you will provide us with their names in an email once registration is confirmed)

 

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​Last year, I had to wait for an hour.  How do I avoid long lines?

Access your event guest portal now!  It is your personal hub for all things Gala. 

• Confirm your contact information,</li>

• Store your credit card and opt in for text updates.</li>

• Once your credit card is stored, you are automatically checked in and can skip the line.
   

Sponsors with tables:   Please enter guest names in your sponsor portal. Our system will communicate directly with them once this step is completed!

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What is the plan for the night?

Doors Open: 5:00 PM

Pre-checked-in guests can pick up their event necessities from the welcome table just inside the entrance.

Guests who have not checked in yet will be assisted by our volunteers.

 

Prelude to Purpose (Cocktail Reception): 5:00–7:00 PM

Mix, mingle, and play for a cause.

Enjoy the first 5 courses of our 10-course tasting menu created and served by Teen United students.

Join in on interactive fundraising games and connect with friends.

 

Main Event (Dinner & Live Auction): 7:00–9:00 PM

Enjoy the final 5 courses of your 10-course meal, served at your table.

Bid on exclusive live auction items, hear inspiring success stories, and enjoy a message from our Director.

 

After Hours celebration: 9:00 PM–midnight

Celebrate our collective impact at the After Hours Dance Party immediately following the Live Auction.
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What games & fundraising fun will I encounter?

All games are played using your bidder number.

Every game supports our mission and makes a difference in the community. 100% of funds raised here, stay here!

 

*BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND*

Crazy Corn Hole

Punch Out Poverty

Fling the Ring

The Dance Card

 

*NEW THIS YEAR*
Spin to Win (spin the wheel and win prizes)

Bucket List (win a Cruise for 2)

5 to Drive (win 250 gallons of gas)

 

*EXTRA FUN*

Golden Tickets: $50 each. You can buy more than one!

If your ticket is drawn, you get to choose ANY Live Auction item before the bidding begins.

 

The Dance Card: Check your goody bag for your Dance Card. Fill it in and you WILL GET a trip for two to Las Vegas or Orlando.
 

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What type of auctions can I expect?

Live Auction

You’ll be given a large bidder sign to hold up when placing bids. Give it your best bid — this is for our community!

Almost Live Auction

Write your maximum bid on the provided slip and place it in the box for that item. Winners are announced during the seated portion of the event.

Bids are sealed, so you won’t see what others have bid — be sure to bid your true top price to increase your chance of winning.

Important:

All bidding is tied to the credit card on file in your Event Guest Portal.

Check your goody bag for a list of all live auction items.
 

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What will I eat?

The 10-course tasting menu was designed and prepared by Teen United students and their Culinary Arts teachers.

The first 5 courses are served during the Prelude to Purpose cocktail reception, and the final 5 courses are served at your table during the Main Event dinner.
This immersive experience is a highlight of the evening!
 

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Can I get a drink?

All drinks are a flat price of $10 and include a tip. You may pay with cash or your bidder number.

Please be kind and generous to our volunteers - they make this night possible!
 

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What if I don't want to drive?

If you are staying at QBRC our free shuttle service will begin pickup at 4:45PM and run every 15 minutes until 5:30PM.  The shuttles will return guests to QBRC immediately following the Main Event and immediately following the After Hours Celebration.  PLUS, Ocean Shores also has uber! 

 

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This is such a big night!  How do you do it?

We can do what we do because of our incredible volunteers! Did you know, it takes over 120 volunteers including 100+ TEEN United students

from local school districts.  They designed, prepared and will serve you throughout the night!

Please show patience, kindness, and grace; their energy and effort make this event possible.
 

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What should I do if I am a Sponsor? 

We want to make sure your guests have a seamless Gala experience.  In order to do this, please access your sponsorship portal and provide us with their names and a valid email.  We'll take it from there!

Staying Overnight? 

We’ve secured discounted room blocks for Gala guests:

Quinault Beach Resort & Casino — Code: 4984

Book early—rooms fill fast!
Oyhut Bay Seaside Village 

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What if I have more questions?

Call 360-532-6260 or email kelley@unitedwaygraysharbor.org or annie@unitedwaygraysharbor.org

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