‘No Place Like Home’ event set to raise funds

By Kimber Westphall

On Thursday, April 29 at Klyde Warren Park, Dallasites and many of Dallas’ most influential leaders will come together for an evening to raise funds and awareness for Austin Street Center, at the sixth annual No Place Like Home event. As one of Austin Street Center’s signature (and most celebrated and anticipated) events, funds raised this year are more crucial than ever. 

With the impact the pandemic has had on the community, as well as the recent snowstorm, Austin Street Center is committed more than ever to serve the most vulnerable homeless, by providing safe shelter and meeting basic needs.

“This event has been a success in years past and it’s imperative that more and more community members know about our mission,” Daniel Roby, chief executive officer of Austin Street Center, said. “The community coming together to rally around a cause that’s important to them is the very foundation on which our organization was founded.”

Founded in 1983, Austin Street Center is one of the largest low barrier shelters in Dallas that serves men, ages 45 and older, and women, ages 18 and older. Each person who finds shelter with Austin Street Center is provided a safe place to sleep, showers, clothing and meals. The Center’s overarching goal is to help clients transition from homelessness to independence. 

“We always say that we are providing more than just a meal and a bed,” Roby said. “Of course, those two things are essential. But beyond that, our individualized model of service attempts to treat the whole individual through a comprehensive program that includes everything from housing coordination and stabilization services, transportation, addiction and beyond.”

And that’s why the Center relies on fundraising events like No Place Like Home. 

Austin Street Center is committed to serving the community in the most responsible way possible so, this year, the event will include an open-atmosphere, socially distanced cocktail reception with live entertainment and a silent auction featuring incredible vacation homes, staycations, home goods and services, along with unique experiences for your next getaway. 

Literally — there’s truly no place like home! 

The event is Co-Chaired by Mackenzie Kleinert and Cynammon Burns Allen. Individual tickets may be purchased for $45 apiece, as well as couple tickets at $80 for the pair. For the health and safety of the event guests, electronic ticketing and entry will be implemented and masks are required at the event. 

There is also a VIP area, where access may be purchased as an upgrade.

“We are thrilled to be chairing the event this year,” Kleinert said. 

“I’ve volunteered with the organization for years and the mission is important to me. Austin Street Center talks the talk, and walks the walk, with all the staff and volunteers embodying the mission in every aspect. If I can be a small part of that, I want to help in the biggest way I can.”

“Austin Street Center is a vital necessity in our community” Allen said. 

“If this organization didn’t exist, I can’t imagine the state of Dallas’ most vulnerable homeless population. I am proud to be part of the mission and amplify it with this event, and all the team members behind it. And we have implemented great measures to keep all attending safe with safety measures, a contactless auction experience and social distancing in mind.”

For tickets to the event, or to learn more visit austinstreet.org/events/noplacelikehome/.

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