The Gunnison Elk’s Lodge and Knights of Columbus are set to host a Kentucky Derby fundraiser next month, with all proceeds supporting the Lighthouse Pregnancy Center.
The Kentucky Derby horse race has been running every May since 1875. Founded by famed explorer Meriwether Lewis, the derby has transformed into a springtime staple, known for elaborate ladies fashion, and iconic mint cocktails. Although set at the Churchill Downs racecourse in Louisville, Kentucky, the race’s pomp and circumstance took flame in downtown Denver in 2001. Denver’s Derby Party sparked as a fundraising event, and has since hosted thousands and funded collegiate scholarships for underprivileged youth.
Inspired by the success of Denver’s Derby Party, Lighthouse board member Greg Kruthaupt is organizing Gunnion’s own “Race for the Roses” celebration at the Elk’s Lodge on May 3. While singing along to “My Old Kentucky Home” and enjoying the raceday festivities, partygoers will also support local families, juggling the uncertainties of parenthood.
“I thought about how the Derby Party gave six, full-ride scholarships to inner city kids last year, and how many tickets they’ve sold for the Kentucky Derby,” Kruthaupt said. “It has been such a successful fundraiser, and I’ve had this idea to raise money for individuals thinking about having a child.”
The Lighthouse Pregnancy Center plans to use the Kentucky Derby watch party as a chance to harness community support for its mission. The faith-based nonprofit offers free and confidential counseling, pregnancy tests and educational resources. Parents are encouraged to utilize Lighthouse’s educational videos to earn points, which can be spent on resources like diapers, car seats and clothes at the nonprofit’s “baby store” in nearby Webster Hall.
“From the time a woman's wondering if she's pregnant, she can come here, take a pregnancy test and immediately have an advocate with her,” said Lighthouse Executive Director Molly Siegert, who worked for two years as a labor and delivery nurse. “Our goal is to come alongside that woman in her journey and support her through it, knowing that there's a place you can really feel heard and seen without judgment, shame or coercion.”
Lighthouse, which recently relocated to 223 N. Iowa Street has seen a growing need for financial resources. The nonprofit hopes to rent an additional client room, and staff a part-time translator position to better serve Gunnison’s Spanish-speaking population. Siegert said the upcoming fundraiser will offer a chance for the nonprofit to open its arms to the community.
“We have such big plans for the Lighthouse that need big funds to be accomplished,” Siegert said. “Ultimately we’d like to see parenting classes, and even cooking classes available in the future, so we’re so excited and grateful for the support from the Elks’s Lodge for this opportunity.”
The fundraiser at the Elk’s lodge will provide a catered dinner from Mario’s Pizza, a bar flowing with mint julips, a best-dressed competition and three screens broadcasting all the action from Churchill Downs. Tickets start at $50 for single tickets, and $75 per couple.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@gunnisontimes.com.)
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