Women’s Service League Charity Ball Raises Record $42,750 for New Heights CCDA
New Heights Christian Community Development Association was honored to be selected as the beneficiary of the 2026 Women’s Service League Charity Ball, where a sold-out evening of community support raised a record $42,750 for the organization.
Held at Union + Social in downtown St. Joseph, the annual Charity Ball brought together community members from across southwest Michigan for an evening of dinner, entertainment, and a silent auction. For decades, the Women’s Service League has supported organizations that strengthen families and neighborhoods across the region through philanthropy and volunteerism. This year’s event continued that tradition in a powerful way.
The $42,750 raised represents the largest total ever raised by the Women’s Service League for a single nonprofit organization, reflecting the strong support for the work New Heights is doing across Berrien County.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Women’s Service League and to everyone who participated in this year’s Charity Ball,” said Chris Britton, Executive Director of New Heights CCDA. “Events like this remind us what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose.”
The funds raised will directly support the work New Heights carries out every day through its core initiatives, which address practical barriers that can prevent individuals and families from achieving stability and long-term success.
New Heights Auto Ministry, which helps individuals gain or maintain employment through reliable transportation. Through significantly subsidized repairs and vehicles, the program supports people who are working hard but face transportation barriers that could otherwise jeopardize their ability to stay employed.
Community Food Network, which provides consistent access to healthy food while also fostering meaningful relationships with participating households. The program helps address chronic food insecurity while connecting families with additional resources and support.
Community Development, including monthly community dinners and the work of the Laundry Hub, where neighbors connect, relationships grow, and community resources are shared. These efforts help strengthen the social fabric of the Benton Heights community and create welcoming spaces where people can access information, build relationships, and participate in the life of their neighborhood.
Community partnerships like the Women’s Service League Charity Ball play an important role in strengthening the impact of organizations like New Heights. Events like this not only raise financial support but also bring together individuals, businesses, and volunteers who care deeply about the well-being of their community.
New Heights CCDA is deeply grateful to the Women’s Service League for their leadership and partnership, as well as the many sponsors, volunteers, and attendees whose generosity made this record-setting evening possible.
Together, these partnerships help ensure that families across Berrien County have access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to move from scarcity, to stability, to success.