CENTREVILLE — Boots & Bling Gala Shines Bright, Raising Record-Breaking Funds for Compass Regional Hospice!
The Boots & Bling Gala was an unforgettable night of music, dancing and generosity, all in support of Compass and its mission to provide compassionate care and support to those facing life-limiting diagnosis or loss.
Held on January 24, 2025, the event brought together community members, donors, and supporters for an evening filled with western glamour and heartfelt giving. Guests arrived in their best cowboy boots and blinged-out attire, ready to celebrate and make a difference.
Through ticket sales, sponsorships, auctions, and donations, this year’s Gala raised a record-breaking 170,000 directly supporting hospice care, grief support, and palliative care to people of all ages in Queen Anne’s, Kent and Caroline counties.
"It was truly humbling to witness the incredible outpouring of support at our recent Gala from our generous community. We cannot thank our donors enough for placing their trust in our mission and choosing Compass as the recipient of their financial support. Your contributions are invaluable and make a significant difference in the lives we touch” said [Heather Guerieri, CEO].
The night was filled with unforgettable moments, featuring live music from Sister Midnight, an exciting live auction and jewelry raffle, and our first-ever Boot Contest, with Lea Brooks taking home the trophy. Guests also enjoyed a journey through Compass 40-year history and a heartfelt tribute to Liz Draper, who was honored with the “Volunteer Legacy Award” for years of dedication to Compass. Attendees were also deeply moved by Paola Jaramillo's powerful and inspirational words, honoring the memory of her daughter, Lily. Her emotional tribute exemplified how Compass Hospice has touched so many lives and reminded everyone of the event’s true purpose.
"A special thank you to Paola for her heartfelt words and for sharing the touching video of Lily with us. Her story beautifully illustrates the profound impact of Compass Hospice’s care and services. We are truly grateful to everyone who made this event such a memorable and meaningful occasion," said Heather Guerieri.
The evening’s success would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors, including our top Ruby sponsor; the Kent Island American Legion. Gold sponsors included: Ruff Roofers and Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. Silver sponsors included: Queenstown Bank, R.B. Baker & Sons, Shore United Bank, PepUp – a Tri Gas Family Company, Swan Cove Spa & Salon, and Pretty Little Wedding Co.
We had multiple bronze level sponsors, including Teresa Baumann, Andy and Gretchen Cheezum, Cohee Insurance Agency, David A. Bramble, Inc., Nick and Kathy Deoudes, Derrika Lane Photography, Janice Feeley, Paula G.T. Hoffberger, Gregory Litvinuk, Eric and Elizabeth Maniago, Pete and Diane Pappas, J.R. Thomas Seafood and Catering, The Winery, and Paula Warner. A special thanks goes out to The Gala Committee, auction donors, Paola and Cameron Rainey, The Draper Family, Jeff Heisey -Auctioneer, CAS Productions, Sister Midnight, The Flower Shop, and the countless volunteers and attendees who made the night one to remember.
"Thank you once again for your unwavering support and commitment to our cause. Together, we continue to make a positive impact in our community." – Heather Guerieri
Compass
Since 1985, Compass has empowered patients to spend their final months as they choose, guiding loved ones through life-limiting diagnoses and teaching healthy ways to manage grief. Today, Compass is a regional provider of hospice care, supportive care, and grief services in Caroline, Kent, and Queen Anne’s counties. Whether serving patients in private residences, skilled nursing facilities, or Compass’ residential center in Centreville, our staff and volunteers are dedicated to ensuring that individuals facing the end of life can live their days fully and meaningfully.
Compass is a fully licensed, independent, community-based nonprofit organization certified by Medicare and the state of Maryland and accredited by the Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP). We are also affiliated with the Palliative Care Organization and the Hospice & Palliative Care Network of Maryland. For more information about Compass, call 443-262-4100 or visit compassregionalhospice.org.
