The United Way of Acadiana’s Rhinestone Rodeo Gala presented by Home Bank was a glitzy western party celebrating all things Dolly Parton. Think boots, cowboy hats, and ladies in rhinestone outfits everywhere.
The lively event took place on Thursday, Sept.18, at Warehouse 535 in Lafayette. Guests enjoyed country and western music (lots of Dolly tunes of course), cowboy themed bites, and even a Bourbon Trail tasting. Auction items included Caribbean Island vacations and spa beauty packages.
Fall is fundraising season. The United Way hosted this gala to raise money for its many community programs including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. If you haven’t heard, this project helps put books in the hands of even the youngest readers. Funds from the event also go toward programs such as Stuff the Bus, which helps stock classrooms with much-needed school supplies, and Education Innovation Grants.