2026 Dinner with Friends
Viva Las Friends! Nearly 250 guests joined us on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Austin Proper Hotel for the Eighth Annual Dinner with Friends. We are grateful to all who attended and supported this evening of “Viva Las Vegas!” to raise more than $1.3 million in support of our mission to break the cycle of generational poverty through professional mentorship.
We are immeasurably grateful for our Dinner with Friends Co-Chairs, Ali Atlas and Lauren Liggett, our Presenting “Royal Flush” Sponsor, Vista Equity Partners, all our generous sponsors, host committee, Board members, and every contributor who made this evening such a success.
This celebratory event included a delicious menu inspired by Delilah Las Vegas, curated cocktails, entertainment from dueling piano players, casino games, and more. Our guests heard from an inspiring program of Friends Austin leadership, including Executive Director, Marilyn Manzo-Dawson, Board Chair, Jessica Leggett, and Director of Development & Communications, Caroline Page Groves. Our most recent video also premiered at the event, featuring the perspectives of our oldest youth as they listen to personal messages from their mentors (or “Friends”), reflect on eight years in our program, and prepare to enter high school this fall. The full video is available to watch here.
A spirited live auction led by renowned auctioneer, Lydia Fenet, included highlights such as a week-long stay at a stunning 30A beach house, a private suite and party bus to see George Strait at the Moody Center in May, and an exclusive opportunity to experience the unparalleled golf and sporting activities at the elite Georgia golf club, The Fall Line.
The evening was marked by some special surprises. After an exciting paddle raise which raised over $530,000 in support of Friends Austin’s life-changing work, attendees were invited to enter two surprise raffles at the end of the night. By pledging to give $1,000, attendees could be entered to win either a $15,000 shopping spree at beloved Austin jeweler, Korman, or to take home an exquisite Rolex watch, purchased from Korman and generously donated to Friends Austin. The party continued after the end of programming with an all-guest after-party and a dedicated VIP after-party space, complete with casino games and late-night bites.
This year’s Dinner with Friends was an unforgettable experience and raised critical funds to provide direct support for the 225 youth and families served by Friends Austin.
We can’t wait to see you at the Ninth Annual Dinner with Friends at the Austin Proper Hotel on May 7, 2027!
Photos by Collin Findlay Photography
