2025 Dinner with Friends The Seventh Annual Dinner with Friends was an extraordinary night! Nearly 250 guests gathered on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Austin Proper Hotel for an evening of Palm Royale to raise over $1.4 million to support the work and mission of Friends Austin. This vibrant, celebratory evening was complete with delicious food and drinks and a chance to learn more about the organization from an inspiring program of speakers, including Executive Director Marilyn Manzo-Dawson, 126th State District Court Judge Aurora Martinez Jones, and Board Chair Jessica Leggett. Guests participated in a spirited live auction and paddle raise with renowned auctioneer Lydia Fenet. The night ended with a bang as attendees were invited to enter a surprise raffle at the end of the night, pledging to give $1,000 for the chance to win a baby blue moke! The evening was unforgettable and raised crucial funds to support the youth and families served by Friends Austin. We are incredibly grateful for our Dinner with Friends Co-Chairs, Rachel Arnold and Nancy Pollard, our Presenting Sponsor, Vista Equity Partners, all our generous sponsors, the Friends Austin Board of Directors, and all contributors who helped to make the event a resounding success. We can't wait to see you at Dinner with Friends 2026! Photos by Collin Findlay Photography