Catalina Island Conservancy hosts annual ball at Avalon Casino Ballroom

AVALON — Catalina Island Conservancy has done much over the years to protect the ecology of Catalina Island. However, soon marks the 22nd annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball, which presents an opportunity for those who love the island to give back to Catalina Island Conservancy.

On Saturday, April 14, Catalina Island Conservancy invites all to join together in a night of dancing and silent and live auctions including hundreds of amazing items such as sports tickets, vacations and more. This year’s theme is “Adventure Begins Here,” kicking off the countdown of the grand opening for the new visitor center, Trailhead in Avalon. About 27 miles of new and enhanced trails have been added to Catalina’s interior, as well.

The ball is held each year at the iconic and historic Avalon Casino Ballroom, a tradition that has been held over from the very first ball held in 1996. Yacht clubs have either hosted or helped hosting the ball in years past. Randy Boelsems and Bob Burnette of Corsair Yacht Club were the first put on the event, wanting to give back a special gift to Catalina Island for the years they had enjoyed time there.

Funds raised by the ball go to such activities as education, recreation programming and conservation. Over the years, this event has raised more than $6.2 million; this year’s goal is to raise $650,000.

Registration is open now. Tickets are $325 per person. Sponsorship tickets are available ranging from $1,500 for a pair of tickets to $40,000 for 20. The Conservancy is also seeking unique items for the live and silent auction and donations are welcome.

Those who register as a sponsor will be invited to attend a special pre-ball reception at Bluewater Avalon and participants will be given the chance to mingle with other sponsors, enjoy delicious food and then take part in the celebrations at the Catalina Island Conservancy Ball afterward.

Avalon Casino Ballroom is located at 1 Casino Way in Avalon.

For any queries, email ball@catalinaconservancy.org or call 562-437-8555 ext. 1239. Visit the website at catalinaconservancy.org to learn more about the ball.