First Project Active gala boosts its mission

La Jolla-based nonprofit Project Active, which distributes sports equipment to children in 41 war-torn nations across the globe, held its first holiday gala on Dec. 3 at La Valencia in La Jolla.

More than 250 guests enjoyed music by Jasmine and Matt Commerce (with special performances by opera singers Victoria Robertson and Daniel Hendrick), hors d’oeuvres, wine tasting from One Hope Winery and a silent auction.

Project Active (projectactive.org) was created by Mitch Thrower, co-founder of The Active Network Inc. (www.active.com). Its distribution and equipment partner, Nick MacFalls, called the gala “a spectacular success” because it raised the capital necessary for the distribution of $150,000 in aid supplies that would otherwise have languished in a warehouse.

“The biggest obstacle for most humanitarian aid organizations is funding the shipments,” MacFalls said. “We have the shoes, soccer balls and equipment donated through partner organizations.”

Thrower added: “Through our programs, kids gain a means to connect to their lives and each other. They are empowered to build the positive, peaceful societies of the future.”