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Best Gala In Tampa Bay Rise Up For Down Syndrome

If you want to attend THE BEST Gala in Tampa Bay, don’t miss Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay’s Rise Up for Down Syndrome. It’s happening Saturday night on March…

Two people speaking at the best gala in Tampa Bay, DSATB Rise Up for Down Syndrome.

Craig Woodard Sr. is the Executive Director of DSATB.

Photo Courtesy of RW

If you want to attend THE BEST Gala in Tampa Bay, don't miss Down Syndrome Association of Tampa Bay's Rise Up for Down Syndrome. It's happening Saturday night on March 9 at the Vault in downtown Tampa. You can find out about tickets here.

This is a night like no other. Roxanne Wilder here, and I want to tell you that this is one of those events I look forward to every year with such excitement. So what make this such an amazing night? First of all, the cause is something I love to get behind. Craig Woodard Sr. is father to Craig Jr. Craig Jr. has Down Syndrome, and as Craig beautifully puts it, it gives his son "this ability" not a disability. Craig and his wife have made it their mission to help other parents of children with Down Syndrome, providing so many avenues for resources and support. The Rise Up for Down Syndrome Gala is a way to raise funds and also a way to celebrate everyone involved with this powerful nonprofit organization.

The Vibe at the Best Gala in Tampa Bay: Rise Up for Down Syndrome

Second thing I love about this gala is the vibe of the night. In addition to Craig being an amazing spokesperson, advocate and resource-provider, he really knows how to pull the right people together to throw a party. Just WOW! The DJ gets EVERYONE on the dance floor and knows how to move the crowd through a range of emotions with the music.

Third element that makes this night so remarkable...the crowd. Yes, the people you meet are truly amazing and this isn't a stuffy gala just for adults. This is about families and children, and quite frankly, the kids end up being the stars of the show! When you watch the kids dance and make new friends, it reminds you what life is all about. There isn't a dry eye in the house.

Craig awards people who are part of DSATB, as well as special members of the community. I loved catching up with him to find out about the event and what makes this the best gala in Tampa Bay.

Charley Belcher and Roxanne Wilder attended the DSATB Rise Up for Down Syndrome Gala.

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It was so cool because Charley was given a community award. Roxanne had an amazing time as the emcee.


Roxanne hung out with a friend associated with DSATB

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It was such a great time running into old friends and making new ones.


It was an honor to be the emcee.

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Craig Woodard Sr. is the Executive Director of DSATB.


Friends forever!

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It was a wonderful night for making new friends!


My husand and daughter had an amazing time, as well.

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Here we are enjoying a little 360 photo booth action.


There were plenty of cool auction items to bid on.

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Looks like this little girl is trying to bid on an item.


Here is Davianna taking a spin on the dance floor.

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What a joyous night!


Everyone hit the dance floor.

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The DJ was fantastic!

Roxanne is a co-host on the MJ Morning Show and host of Middays on Q105 in Tampa Bay. She also hosts segments on The Current, which features local feel-good stories and health and wellness segments, and airs on five of the six Tampa-based Beasley Media Group stations. Roxanne has conducted hundreds of interviews, from athletes to Oscar winners, including Matt Damon, Christian Bale, and Chadwick Boseman. She also specializes in media training, having worked with clients in the NFL, NBA and WWE for television, in print, and online. Roxanne is a published author and will be releasing a thriller novel in 2024. Her favorite thing in the world is being with her two daughters and husband. As a content creator for Q105, Roxanne writes about family activities in the Tampa Bay area, as well as reviews for local restaurants and travel.