The Roaring 20’s came rolling into Oak Crest on September 15 for the annual gala to support the Erickson Living retirement community’s Benevolent Care Fund. More than 250 guests attended the extravaganza, most decked out in attire from the era which set the tone for the event.

Arriving at Crestview Station, classic 1920’s cars lined the entrance, while cigarette girls greeted guests with trays of champagne. If you knew the password to Roussey’s Speakeasy, the heavily guarded door was the gateway to an exclusive jazz club where guests ordered Mary Pickfords and Sidecars and servers passed delicious hors d'oeuvres.

Erickson Hall was transformed into an elegant venue decorated from floor to ceiling with warm lights, gold tinsel, ostrich feathers and art deco walls. The Helmut Licht Orchestra performed smooth jazz, followed by an incredible meal of filet mignon and lobster crab cakes. The dessert table in Crestview lobby was a delicious spectacle with a chocolate fountain and towering cupcake display.

“The event couldn’t have been possible without the Gala Committee who met for months to plan, collecting wine for the wine pull, stuffing invitations and securing item donations,” noted Stacey Schiano, Philanthropy Manager at Oak Crest. “Our talented resident woodshop members contributed, with Ed Kaczmarek creating the fabulous art deco wall art and Walter Maliszewski making the fantastic 1920’s silhouettes. The floral arranging class led by resident Darlene Koch designed elegant centerpieces of ostrich feathers. Every department at Oak Crest played a part in some way to ensure a successful gala.”

“With sponsor support of over $65,000, this gala will be one to be remembered, raising more than $100,000 for the Benevolent Care Fund,” stated Ms. Schiano. “On behalf of the Philanthropy Department, we want thank everyone for their time, talent and treasure.”

The Benevolent Care Fund provides the confidential assistance that allows residents who have experienced unforeseen financial burdens to remain at Oak Crest, assuring that they will receive the care they deserve.

About Oak Crest: Oak Crest, one of 19 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 87-acre campus in Parkville, Maryland. The community is located in Baltimore County and is home to more than 2,100 residents. Additional information about Oak Crest can be found at OakCrestCommunity.com.