This story was originally published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Wesley Family Services held its annual gala at the Wyndham Grand, Downtown Saturday night. Nearly 300 people came to support WFS at the gala, which started with a cocktail reception and included a silent auction.

This year’s event showcased the Quality Whole Person Care model, which has a holistic approach and meets clients’ physical, emotional, social, financial and other needs.

WTAE-TV’s Shannon Perrine emceed and the gala chair was Len Corton.

“I want to thank everybody who attended the gala and supports our mission,” said Doug Muetzel, CEO of Wesley Family Services. “This event is so important to Wesley Family Services and the proceeds raised help us provide transformational care to members of our community throughout the year.”

Many were honored for serving a wide range of people, from those with intellectual disabilities to families going through difficulties to senior citizens. Among the honorees were Rose Morris and the Quality Whole Person Care Award winners Deanna Bennis, Mina Al Doori, Brendan Barnett, Mary Jo Thomson, Blanche Wedel, Deanna Bennis, Amy Kimicta-Savarino, Sherry Buford, Nicole Harris and Gale Foster.

“To be recognized by an organization that is led by someone as amazing as Doug and does such incredible work is beyond an honor,” said Morris.

“We could not think of better person to honor than Rose Morris and our Quality Whole Person Care Award winners  because they are true mission-advancers and valued members of our community,” noted Muetzel. The event grossed $170,000.

Among those applauding were KDKA’s Josh Taylor, Sean Biggart, Jim Patton, Art and Ann Cipriani, Danny and Debbie Brown and Andrea Bowser.