We like to support good causes. From farming to helping people back on their feet, the family here cares. We were approached to participate as a sponsor in this years Chocolate Ball run by Substance Abuse Prevention Services (SAPS) in Charlotte, NC.

The Executive Director of SAPS, Helen Harrill can often be found at the markets talking with her local farmers and artisanal crafters and that’s how we came to meet her. She’s bright, funny, deeply caring, and a true inspiration to talk with. As we started heading down the road to supporting The Chocolate Ball I thought an interview was in order.

The Chocolate Ball

When did the Chocolate Ball begin and what is the story behind it?

Helen: Our first Chocolate Ball was in 2006 and has become more elaborate and delicious since. Substance Abuse Prevention Services is a private not-for-profit agency serving Mecklenburg since 1971. We wanted to have a unique fund-raiser that would be memorable to all involved.

Tell us a little about the evening at hand, it has such a great air about it!

Helen: Our Chocolate Ball offers an evening of fine dining, good company, great music, a well-stocked silent auction and the best chocolate Charlotte has to offer.

Where it all goes, can you tell us a little more background on prevention services in our community?

Helen: Substance Abuse Prevention Services has served this community for 37 years. Prevention is a proactive process of building healthy living skills. We provide programs for youth, families, and professionals in schools, communities, faith-based settings and the workplace. We conduct a youth drug survey to determine the incidence and prevalence of drug use among youth in Mecklenburg. We also offer a confidential referral and information line at 704 375-DRUG(3784).

Beyond the Ball, what can people do year round to help you all out?

Helen: Practice prevention (wellness) and encourage friends and family to do the same. Also, we are a 501c-3 and contributions will be applied to programs for “at -risk” youth. Donations can be mailed to SAPS, 1117 E. Morehead, Charlotte, NC 28204. We occasionally have volunteer opportunities

Any message or thought for 2009?

Helen: Talk to your kids (and friends) about drugs and alcohol. Practice healthy living skills. This is a “Yes, We Can” year.

Join Us at The Chocolate Ball

We’d like to thank Helen and all the wonderful people at the Substance Abuse Prevention Services office. This year should be a fantastic year for The Chocolate Ball and we encourage you to come out and join us. We’re one of a few fantastic chocolate vendors of the area that will be out and we’ll be serving delicious slices of our homemade chocolate torte and bite sized chocolate truffles.

Event Information

Date: Saturday February 7th, 2009
Time: 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Location: Marriott SouthPark
Cost: Individual $75, Table (Non-Profit) $600, Diamond Table $1500, Platinum Table $2500

For more information visit The Chocolate Ball’s website. We hope to see you there!

Related posts:

1. Homemade Chocolate Party
2. What is a Chocolate Infusion?
3. Smiling Faces for Homemade Chocolates