The Penguins Foundation hosted its first ever “Night of Assists” Charity Gala presented by Highmark on February 20 as they treated a sold out crowd to the sights and sounds of a traveling circus under the big top at PPG Paints Arena.
The event raised over $450,000 for the Penguins Foundation to support its vast array of youth initiatives and special needs programs for children throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.
The gala’s circus theme was apparent as guests approached PPG Paints Arena and were greeted outside the gates by circus entertainers including a fire breather and stilt walker.
A VIP Reception was held in partnership with Trib Total Media in the Lexus Club prior to the main event where Penguins management and team mingled with guests.
At the Grand Circus located on PPG Paints Arena floor, the entire Penguins team was on hand to challenge guests at games including Black Jack, Roulette, Craps and a host of carnival games. Team management and the Penguins’ coaching staff were also available to meet and greet guests while Dan Potash from AT&T Sports Network served as the gala’s Ringmaster.
The event’s wide variety of entertainment captured the mystique of a vintage circus from yesteryear and included a snake charmer, jugglers, contortionist, magician and a host of traditional circus performers. Guests were also treated to themed cocktails and a wine tasting with over 30 global wines and food stations featuring carnival cuisine with a twist.
The event also featured a silent auction of over 100 unique items and included autographed jerseys that the players wore during the team introductions that evening.