It was 23 years ago when Jerry Fineberg, founder and chairman of the Fineberg Companies, and his colleague Dan Frank launched what has become a tradition: The Annual Price Center Gala.
They were later joined by Fineberg's daughter, Michelle, and have grown the Gala to an annual event that brings some 900 guests together to enjoy an evening of entertainment with extraordinary talent while raising funds and generating awareness of The Price Center's work.
Since its inception, the Gala has raised millions in support of the agency's programs and services.
And this year, Grammy Award-winning singing legend Natalie Cole will headline the 23rd annual gala to benefit The Price Center, a regional leader in providing care to adults with developmental disabilities.
Building on the smashing success of the bigger, better 2012 Gala, this year's The Price Center Gala will take place on October 12 at the Boston Marriott Copley Place hotel. Backed by a quintet, Cole will sing some of her well-known hits and perform from her critically acclaimed new album "Natalie Cole En Español."
Tickets start at $250 and can be purchased through The Price Center's website.
This year's event offers an added bonus: Price Center supporters who donate $1,500 or more as sponsors will be invited to a special pre-show VIP reception to meet Natalie over drinks and hors d'oeuvres. The Gala is The Price Center's major fundraiser of the year. Doors for Natalie Cole's performance at the Price Center Gala will open at 7:00 p.m.
This year's Gala will also recognize the charitable work and enduring support of the late Morris Gordon, his widow, Ellen, and their family. Gordon, who died earlier this year, and his family will be recognized at the Gala for their tireless work on behalf of The Price Center and their unwavering financial support of the agency.
The Gala will be emceed by WBZ-AM 1030 News radio host Jordan Rich. A Boston native and radio industry veteran, Rich is well known for his support of Boston area charities. His popular "The Jordan Rich Show" airs on WBZ-AM from midnight to 5 a.m. on Saturdays and from midnight to 3:30 a.m. on Sundays.
The Price Center is committed to providing services and accessible care to developmentally disabled adults and teens throughout the Boston area, The Price Center operates three day-centers, in Newton and Dedham, as well as four residential homes and a supported apartment program in Newton and Brookline. The mission of The Price Center is to encourage disabled individuals' personal growth and full participation in their communities through social, living and work experiences that respect their preferences and accommodate diversity.
Cole will take the stage as part of a full evening of entertainment that also includes a buffet/cocktail reception, with creative cocktails and gourmet fare, after the show and live entertainment by Boston-based performer Tracy Clark, who will sing jazz standards, show tunes and more.
Tickets start at $250 and can be purchased through The Price Center's website at www.ThePriceCenter.org or by calling 617-244-0065.