In Jess Branas’s music review from Inspiring Lives Magazine’s Winter 2017 issue, she first introduced us to the powerful voice of Lydia Elle. “Lydia has an impeccable gift that makes you addicted to love, power, and hope. And in this world, it’s a voice and word we all need to hear.”

Those attending The Global Sisterhood 501 (c)(3) charity’s Global Gala fundraiser in April of this year were awed by Elle’s voice, which filled the room with passion and pain as she belted out Aretha Franklin’s “Ain’t No Way.”

The Double Tree Hilton in Cranberry, Pa., hosted the 15th annual Glass Slipper Ball featuring the Best of the Chefs. Over 450 people attended, and over $30,000 was raised from the event to benefit three non-profits helping women living in despair here and across the globe.

  • Ceed helps those in poverty-stricken areas of the world develop projects for a sustainable income.
  • Living in Liberty provides a secure and safe place for women survivors of sex trafficking.
  • Treasure House Fashions provides clothing for women in need.

Honored at the event as “Princess of the Ball” was Jenevive Wood, who was escorted by U.S. Army Specialist Gray Colin. Wood was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, similar to ALS (known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), which will affect her mobility and speech.

Emceed by Kym Gable of KDKA-TV, the Glass Slipper Ball showcased delicious dishes from top restaurants in Pittsburgh for the annual Best of the Chefs awards. People’s Choice went to John Marshall Catering, and the Judges’ Choice Award went to Eddie Merlot.

Guests were entertained by a dance performance from Arthur Murray Dance Studios, and when the dance floor opened, they danced to music by DJ Kellie Burns. The event also featured a silent auction and raffles.

The Glass Slipper Ball was founded in 2003 in Pittsburgh by Debra Dion Krischke and, over the past 15 years, has raised over $1.5 million for various charities. For additional information about The Glass Slipper Ball and the charities it benefitted, please visit their websites: endhumantrafficking.org, livinginliberty.org, ceed-trust.org, glassslipperball.com.

 

Photos by Mary Beth Kratsas