After All These Years, Gamma Pi's Mardi Gras Returns With a Vengeance

Bro. Chairman Rodney Beverly and family
(photo by Bro. David Sierra)

Over the years, the annual Mardi Gras gala has been Gamma Pi Chapter’s signature social event. It was the go-to social occasion in Prince George’s County – the place and event to be seen at and spoken for in all of Prince George’s County. For the Ques of The Super Chapter, Mardi Gras was the finest “party with a purpose” in the area as the Brothers, in partnership with Friendship Charities Foundation, used the formal event to raise funds for  social action projects.

Enter the pandemic. Four straight years of postponements due to health risks associated with the COVID pandemic proved to be the only foe that would knock the Mardi Gras off its perch. And now, five years later, karma caught up and settled the score, as the Mardi Gras returned with a vengeance on Saturday, March 30 with a sold-out house of more than 800 patrons at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD.

Among the crowd were several local and state officials and other dignitaries who came out to show their support for the causes of Gamma Pi and Friendship Charities, Inc.

So many people, so much activity

The highlight of the classy, entertaining evening was the costume parade competition. If there is one thing about Mardi Gras everybody was longing for in its return, it was the masQUErade parade and judging. This was just one of the many reasons patrons relished the return of the event and enjoyed the evening’s festivities. Adding to the fast and furious entertainment was Deejay SHABLAST and singer Fancee.

“The Gamma Pi Chapter orchestrated an unforgettable night of elegance and mystery at the Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball 2024,” said event chairman Bro. Rodney Beverly. “This event was a unique blend of festivity, fashion and philanthropy, all in the spirit of Mardi Gras.”

This year’s return to Mardi Gras focused on welcoming back waiting patrons by re-connecting to the roots of the event – masquerade and masks, draped in New Orleans-themed Purple and Gold (what else?).

The tally isn't in yet, but suffice it to say Gamma Pi and Friendship Charities raised in the tens of thousands of dollars for social action projects to help Prince George's county residents who are in need of assistance. 

This year also marked a creative new approach to charitable fundraising. Called text-to-give, it is a powerful fundraising method that offers convenience, simplicity, and intuitive use. Donors were able to give directly through their mobile phones, making it an effective way to engage supporters and drive donations. This year, through the chapter implementing this method of donating, that campaign alone netted $7,000 in addition to thousands more that will be raised through ticket sales.

Overall, it was a fantastic night for Gamma Pi and the community! We are already anticipating Mardi Gras 2025! Thanks to Bro. Beverly and his entire committee for yet another Gamma Pi "elite experience!"

This crowd is electric!!!

Who are these masked "invaders?"

 

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