Charity Ball Association Board of Directors
Back row Left to Right: Kelly Kennedy, Laura Dawson, Lisa Thurmond, Nel Belt, Carrie Catalani, Josie Flesher, Amy Swaney
Front Row Left to Right: Katherine Hollimon, Jody Lutz, Kathleen LeFlore, Christy Ebrom
The Charity Ball Association:
Over 70 Years of Hope and Impact
Since 1954, The Charity Ball Association (CBA) of San Antonio has been “funding hope, changing lives, and shaping futures for the children of Bexar County.” What began as a grassroots movement of women called to action during World War II has evolved into one of the city’s most influential philanthropic organizations, raising more than $30 million to support local children’s charities.
This year’s Chrysanthemum Ball, themed “Storybook Garden,” was held on Thursday, October 16th at The Witte Museum offering an evening of elegance and purpose. For the first time in the event’s storied history, the gala introduced a “Featured Entertainer,” with Katharine McPhee headlining the night. Guests also enjoyed performances by DJ Lucy from Dallas and The San Antonio Academy Boys Chorale during cocktail hour.
In another exciting first, the evening included a Super Silent Auction alongside CBA’s traditional raffle and live auction, led by auctioneer Morgan Hopson of Fort Worth. Continuing a cherished tradition, the Cavender family once again donated a car for the raffle—an unbroken commitment spanning 56 years—alongside a Rolex watch generously contributed by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.
Over its 70+ year history, the Charity Ball Association’s 140 dedicated women have supported transformative projects across Bexar County—from funding 54 playgrounds to upgrading roofs, HVAC systems, technology, and security infrastructure for dozens of non-profit agencies. This year, CBA is proud to award over $1.3 million in grants.
As another chapter closes on this year’s Chrysanthemum Ball, the story of generosity continues to bloom—reminding San Antonio that hope, like a garden, flourishes when nurtured with love and purpose.
Let your gift be part of the story—support our cause by visiting www.cbaofsa.org
