NewsDrop July 2023

EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVANCY

About That Night It Rained A Thousand Drops…

By : Nikki Young, EAA Senior Community Engagement Administrator

On the morning of May 13, 2023, our award-winning rainwater harvesting system at the Edwards Aquifer Authority Education Outreach Center (EOC) was in full effect. By evening, the skies cleared as over 200 supporters of the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) gathered to celebrate ‘the magic of water’ at the Night of a Thousand Drops, the inaugural signature fundraising event benefiting the Edwards Aquifer Conservancy (EAC), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the sole purpose of supporting the critical work the EAA does to manage, enhance, and protect our Edwards Aquifer. The enchanting evening that produced a STORM of engaging entertainment, delicious food, a salacious water tasting, and a SHOWER of great conversation and inspiration was held at the EOC at Morgan’s Wonderland Camp, which was the perfect setting for an event dedicated to the conversation of our most precious resource. Mother Nature seemed to be putting on its own show of support, after rains fell in the morning, but ceased by the time attendees arrived who were determined to support the raising of much-needed funds for the EAC. All agreed that the stormy weather served as a reminder of the importance of ground water and the journey that each rain drop makes to benefit us all. As the night progressed, the DOWNPOUR of donations continued like a steady rain through winning super silent auction bids, wishing well pledges, and via sales of our “heads or tails” game, fine water pull, and live watercolor portraits. In addition to subsidizing guest admissions to the EOC, 100% of the proceeds raised from the event will carry out all EAA-authorized programs, projects, and special initiatives.

In addition to showing monetary support, gala guests had the chance to explore over a dozen interactive exhibits and learn about the groundbreaking research and conservation efforts for our “Next Generation” plan that will positively impact our community for years to come, as well as applaud recipients of the first ever Edwards Aquifer Champion awards. In conclusion, the Night of a Thousand Drops was a resounding success that demonstrated the power of community and the unwavering commitment of individuals and organizations to be stewards of the Edwards Aquifer. A huge debt of gratitude goes towards the sponsors, donors, staff, and volunteers who made it all possible. Those unable to attend, but would still like to show your support can either make a donation online or by mail to:

Participating for the third year, the Edwards Aquifer Conservancy was awarded $10,000 for its fundraising efforts during the past year. Champions fore Charity is an integral fundraising element of the Valero Texas Open, the annual PGA Golf Tournament held in April at the TPC Golf Course of the JW Marriott in San Antonio, Texas. Nonprofit organizations such as the Conservancy are encouraged to raise funds and have them matched with a 7 percent gift incentive. 151 charities participated in 2023, with the overall gift incentive payout for all organizations coming in at $14 million. “We’re extremely pleased to be part of the Champions fore Charity event,” says Mike De La Garza, Executive Director of the Edwards Aquifer Conservancy. “We’re able to leverage the funds we raise, and increase them, because the 7 percent match makes every gift that much more valuable. We thank Valero Energy and Champions fore Charity for everything they do!” EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVANCY NETS $10,000 FROM 2023 CHAMPIONS FORE CHARITY FUNDRAISING

Edwards Aquifer Conservancy C/O Nikki Young 900 E. Quincy San Antonio, TX 78215

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