The MRC Foundation Gala took place on Thursday 8 May 2025 and it was a truly unforgettable experience for those of us lucky enough to be there.
We knew we were fortunate to have been chosen as this year’s MRC Gala charity partner, but the event confirmed just how special the opportunity was. In addition to the hugely important fundraising element, we’ve also had the benefit of forging new connections that will help strengthen our community, as well as the chance to share vital stories and messages about the importance of the work we do with a community outside of our own.
Kath Mansour shared, “The gala was so amazing. My favourite parts were the singing, the live auction, the raffle, and I loved all the dancing at the end. I want to say a big thank you to the MRC Foundation for organising this special event for Down Syndrome Victoria. I was so proud to be part of this event and I was lucky to say a few words as part of the Q and A. The money raised will go towards advocating for people with Down syndrome.”
MRC Foundation raised over $325,000, and DSV is so lucky to receive $250,000 of that. This generous donation will vitally help us make up a gap in our funding, enabling us to deliver support, education and advocacy for and with our amazing community.
Matt O’Neil said, “The gala means a lot of things to me. It celebrated my life with Down syndrome and showed what I can do with my intellectual disability and to be proud of it. It means a lot to raise money for Down Syndrome Victoria. It shows support for our organisation and for people with Down syndrome and the life we chose to have, and for our families as well. I’d like to give a big thanks to the MRC for showing your support for Down syndrome.”
We are incredibly thankful to everyone who made the night a success, including the MRC Foundation, the generous businesses and individuals who donated incredible gala auction and raffle items, our dedicated team of MRC and DSV volunteers, the 600+ attendees (and those from afar) who purchased raffle tickets, bid on silent auction items or made a pledge to raise critical funds for our organisation, and our fabulous DSV community who celebrated with us on the night.
Daniel Payne said, “We’re incredibly grateful to the MRC Foundation, the many generous donors and the committed volunteers at the event. The night was a resounding success and sparked buzz and curiosity throughout the broader community, raising awareness of the work being done by DSV, highlighting the potential of people with Down syndrome to live active and fulfilling lives within Victorian communities. The funds raised will generate meaningful change for current and future members of the DSV community.”
The impact of this event will be far reaching, and we are so appreciative.
