‘A Night At The Races’ Charity Gala to Raise Funds for Academic Scholarships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Elizabeth Avelar
Social Chair, Rotary Club of San Antonio
Find and contact Liz from the Board of Directors section of our About page.

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An Evening of Bourbon, Bubbles & Bites at the Dawson Family Hall, September 25, 2026

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San Antonio, TX – A Night at the Races' Charity Gala, presented by Don Strange of Texas, is set to take place on Thursday, September 25, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Dawson Family Hall at the Witte Museum. This event will bring together the community for an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and philanthropy—with all proceeds directly benefiting the Rotary Club of San Antonio’s Scholarship Fund.

Guests will enjoy a Derby-inspired experience featuring Bourbon, Bubbles & Bites, a lively atmosphere filled with gourmet cuisine, premium drinks, and engaging entertainment. The night will also include simulated horse racing, high-end raffle prizes, a live band, a DJ, dancing, and special guest appearances, making it a must-attend event for those passionate about supporting local students and their educational futures.

A Night of Giving Back

With a mission to empower the next generation through education, the Rotary Club of San Antonio is dedicated to providing financial assistance to promising students who need support to achieve their academic goals. Funds raised at the ‘A Night at the Races’ Charity Gala will go directly toward scholarships—helping young scholars unlock opportunities and pursue their dreams.

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“Often circumstances in life can be very difficult, but when others believe in you and offer a hand of friendship and care, it can make all the difference. That is what Diploma Plus was for me. Receiving a Diploma Plus Scholarship is a perfect example of how lives can be impacted for the better.” –Debbie Kaliski, past scholarship recipient

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The Rotary Club of San Antonio began its support of students with a student loan program developed in the 1920s to help “worthy boys and girls for the purpose of assisting them in acquiring a college or university education. The club later shifted from a lending program to granting scholarships to both at-risk high school students and college students who exhibit an interest in community service.

“The Diploma Plus program is more than just financial aid – it’s a pathway to success, It offers mentorship and support to help young people reach their full potential" said scholarship recipient Jaggar Garcia.

Tickets & Sponsorships

Tickets start at $125 and are available for purchase at: https://www.rotarysa.org/events/a-night-at-the-races

Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and individuals who want to make a meaningful impact—while gaining visibility at this prestigious event.

Join Us in Making a Difference

“This event is more than just a gala – it’s a chance to change lives, By attending or sponsoring ‘A Night at the Races’ Charity Gala, you’re investing in the future of our students and giving them the opportunity to succeed.” said Ramiro Morales,Committee Chair.

More Information

Event Theme: Derby-style gala with a sophisticated, Southern-inspired ambiance.

Attire: Derby chic – think fascinators, bow ties, and stylish race-day fashion.

Entertainment: Live music by The Texases, a DJ spinning throughout the night, dancing, exciting auction items, and virtual horse racing.

Charity Impact: Scholarships will be awarded to high-achieving, financially disadvantaged high school students in the local area.

How to Donate: Even if you can’t attend, donations are welcome via https://www.rotarysa.org/donate

Media Opportunities: Depending on availability, media interviews may be arranged with a scholarship graduate to share their perspective, or with a school counselor to discuss the program’s impact.

About Rotary Club of San Antonio

Founded in 1912, the Rotary Club of San Antonio has a long history of community service and impact. From sponsoring the first community Christmas tree in Alamo Plaza to funding scholarships for deserving students, Rotary has consistently led initiatives that uplift the city. Over the decades, the club has supported orphans, funded educational programs, and even contributed to the iconic River Walk’s festive lights. Today, through its Youth Education Foundation, Rotary provides scholarships to high-achieving students, and through programs like Rotary Diploma Plus, it mentors and supports at-risk youth to stay in school.

Rotary’s commitment extends globally, aiding in polio eradication, clean water access, and literacy programs. With over a century of service, the Rotary Club of San Antonio continues to change lives—one project at a time.

About Don Strange of Texas

For over 70 years, Don Strange of Texas has been a leader in full-service catering and special event management, bringing world-class cuisine and hospitality to the San Antonio community and beyond. Renowned for its creative menus and attention to detail, the company has built a legacy of excellence—serving clients ranging from local families to international dignitaries.

As a longtime supporter of community initiatives, Don Strange of Texas continues to give back, with Brian Strange, a proud Rotarian, leading efforts to support charitable causes like the ‘A Night at the Races’ Gala.

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