BCI's 12th Annual Behind the Mask Gala to the Held February 2nd

BCI will host its 12th Annual Behind the Mask fundraising gala featuring a “Gold Rush: Cowboys & Cocktails” theme on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at The Foundry Art Centre, St. Charles. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the program begins at 7:30 p.m.

Behind the Mask celebrates the people doing great things behind the scenes to ensure that adults living with disabilities have every opportunity to achieve their full potential.

At the gala, BCI will honor Jennifer Hecht and Cheri & Brian Norton with its Loving Hands Award. This award honors an individual, business or organization that has made a significant difference in the lives of BCI employees over the years.

Cheri & Brian Norton founded Andrew’s Hugs following the passing of their son Andrew. Andrew, who lived with Prader-Willi Syndrome, worked at BCI and was known for his happy spirit, warm bear hugs and love of the St. Louis Cardinals. Andrew’s Hugs raises money to help people with mental and physical disabilities by providing opportunities for entertainment and social interaction. Over the past three years, the organization has made significant donations to organizations including Community Living, Wonderland Camp, Emerge EveryOne, and BCI.

Jen Hecht has been one of BCI’s most active volunteers since 2010. The sister-in-law of BCI employee Rodney Hecht, Jen supports BCI’s mission every chance she gets. She and her twin sister Jayme have given significant time and energy working BCI’s major fundraisers. Jen, who works at Citi in O’Fallon, also recently spearheaded a mutually beneficial partnership between BCI and Citi’s Disability Affinity Network, which has resulted in increased awareness of BCI’s social mission among hundreds of Citi employees.

Tickets to Behind the Mask are $100 each and include drinks, heavy appetizers, attendance prizes, silent and live auctions, a whiskey and wine pull, and entertainment by local favorite, the Rough Ryders. Reserved tables of 10 may also be purchased for $900. With the “Gold Rush: Cowboys & Cocktails” theme, attendees are encouraged to be creative with a country western flair and enjoy the comfort of wearing casual and formal wear together.

Tickets and sponsorships may be purchased through the event website at one.bidpal.net/behindthemask. Auction items may also be donated via the site. For more information, call Niki Lane at 636-875-5244.