Our annual Corks & Forks gala was a smash hit this year! After a brief COVID-related hiatus, we returned to The Townsend Hotel in Birmingham on March 12 where we were joined by a sold-out crowd of 200 guests. The event was chaired by Pete Hockey, global commodity director – body interior at Ford Motor Company and attended by several senior automotive executives including Scott Thiele, senior vice president, strategic technology partnerships at Stellantis, and Matt Joshua, vice president for infotainment services at General Motors. With help from generous event sponsors and guests, we raised more than $400,000 to support students in our Workforce Prep program.
See photos from our 2022 Corks & Forks.
The evening started with a VIP wine tasting reception featuring a tantalizing array of wines and delicious appetizers. The general reception followed and included an entirely different menu of wine. The program featured a rousing live auction emceed by Les Gold from the hit TV series, Hardcore Pawn, and moving remarks by Pier Harris, Winning Futures alum who is now attending the College for Creative Studies.
“This fall was the first time I had an in-person class in 18 months,” said Pier. “I quickly realized that I was struggling with motivation and procrastination. I knew these things were going to become big problems for me, so I signed up for the Winning Futures College Success Mentoring program. My mentor pushed and encouraged me to set goals. She gave me tips and advice on how to better myself. And now, when I reach a goal, I feel so accomplished! If it weren’t for my mentor, college would be a bad experience for me.”
“We are extremely grateful to our Corks & Forks sponsors and guests,” said Kris Marshall, president and CEO. “The evening was a lot of fun, plus we raised a significant amount of money, all of which supports students in our program, like Pier Harris.”
We’ve already begun planning next year’s Corks & Forks. This event has sold out for the past four years. For sponsorship and ticket opportunities, contact Daniela Matthews, donor relations manager, at Daniela@WinningFutures.org or 586-371-2125.
NOTE: Our 2022 Golf Classic will be held on Monday, September 12 at Indianwood Country Club in Lake Orion. The event chairs are Frank Orsini, executive vice president and president of seating at Lear Corporation and Mindi Fynke, president and CEO of EHIM. This event quickly sells out every year. Contact Daniela Matthews or click here for more information.