2300 Orleans Street West, Stillwater

(651) 439-7434

Community Thread
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Annual Fundraiser: Give & Gather

Tickets are SOLD OUT for the 2026 Give & Gather event.

We look forward to seeing you on November 5!

Savory hors d’oeuvres • Delicious Desserts • Impact stories • Giving Moment • Live Auction

Join Community Thread for Give & Gather: A Holiday Happy Hour on Thursday, November 5. Doors open at 5:30 PM. our premier annual fundraising event celebrating the season, our community, and the connections that make a difference.

Gather with neighbors, friends, local partners, and supporters for a festive evening of celebration and community impact. Your participation helps support Community Thread’s programs, services, and opportunities that strengthen connections for older adults, families, volunteers, and community members.

Enjoy a welcoming holiday happy-hour atmosphere—and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be on hand to bring extra festive cheer to the evening.

Give & Gather is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the season while investing in a stronger, more connected community. Join us to give back, connect with others, and celebrate what we can accomplish together.

Questions? Contact Cathleen Hess at Cathleen@CommunityThreadMN.org or call 651-439-7434.

MEET OUR EMCEE

A speaker, storyteller, business consultant, and experienced emcee, Princess Paula brings people together through engaging events and meaningful conversation. Through Princess Paula Consulting, she helps businesses and leaders strengthen their message, build connections, and grow their influence. Her guiding philosophy—“treating everyone like royalty”—reflects the welcoming spirit she brings to her work.

For Give & Gather: A Holiday Happy Hour, Paula will trade her princess title for a little North Pole magic. She and her husband will bring Santa and the Mrs. to life as this year’s festive emcees. Known for spreading holiday cheer throughout the community, the pair will welcome guests and guide an evening of connection, celebration, and generosity.

Together, they’ll help Community Thread kick off Stillwater’s holiday season and celebrate Hometown for the Holidays while supporting Holiday Hope and the neighbors who count on us during the season.

EVENT DETAILS

ACCESSIBILITY

The main entrance on Nelson Street is wheelchair accessible. Please note that there is no elevator access to the lower level of the Grand Garage. For guests needing an alternative route, a wheelchair-accessible ramp connects our outdoor patio to the loading area on Nelson Alley.

ALLERGEN INFORMATION

We are pleased to offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menu options. However, because all ingredients are prepared and handled within the same kitchen, we cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free or cross-contamination-free environment.

VENUE: Lora Event Center

Located within the Grand Garage in downtown Stillwater. Address: 324 S. Main St #2, Stillwater, MN 55082

ATTIRE

Come as you are! Whether you’re coming from the office, wearing your favorite holiday sweater, dressing up, or keeping it casual, we want you to feel comfortable and welcome.

EVENT TIMELINE

5:30–6:30 p.m. | Social Hour

  • Doors open
  • Cash bar available
  • Complimentary food stations
  • Time to mingle and connect

6:30–7:00 p.m. | Program & Fundraiser

  • Welcome and impact stories
  • Giving moment
  • Live auction

7:00 p.m. and beyond | Mix & Mingle

  • Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus
  • Reverse auction available
  • Connect with friends, neighbors, and fellow community supporters