9th Annual Cowboy Mardi Gras fundraiser for Austin’s House a success, organizers say

Austin’s House and the Carson Valley/Carson City communities celebrated the 9th Annual Cowboy Mardi Gras on February 24th at the Carson Valley Inn. The sold-out event was a remarkable success raising money to assist in operational costs for the emergency children’s shelter serving rural Northern Nevada.

Special guest Briana Neben, crowned Miss Douglas County in early February, mingled with guests and showed her support as an advocate for domestic abuse prevention, including violence against children.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a $52,500 donation from the Austin Kirby Foundation, presented by founder Patty Clark. This donation, and the ongoing support of the community, will allow Austin’s House to continually improve services to children in need. Austin’s House recently completed a major refurbishment of the teen area with the help of many monetary and in-kind donations. Beginning this year, Austin’s House plans to expand its services to include free short term respite program for foster families. This program will allow foster parents to take much needed self-care breaks or deal with critical family issues when they do not have other child care available.

Austin’s House was built through the collaborative efforts of many agencies and members of the community who care deeply about the welfare of children. Austin’s House provides shelter, food, clothing, educational support, and facilitation of medical, dental, and mental health care to children ages 0-18. In most cases, the children attend their regular school and continue participation in sports and/or other extracurricular activities. As Austin’s House approaches its 10th anniversary in September, they look forward to celebrating with the many businesses, individuals, and agencies in the community who helped make Austin’s House a reality.

For information on how to support Austin’s House year-round, please visit their website at austinshouse.org, or call 775-267-6711.