Helping hands prepare WNC for black tie gala

Wells Fargo bank employees lent Western Nevada College their helping hands last week to prepare its Jack C. Davis Observatory for the WNC Foundation’s “Reach for the Stars” Black Tie Gala fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 20.

Employees from local Wells Fargo banks generously donated their time to weed and clean up outside the observatory on a recent warm morning.

Wells Fargo Capitol District employees are encouraged to take part in community service. They typically devote two hours per month to assist organizations in Carson City and Dayton.

“Its business managers knowing what is out there in our community, what the needs are,” said Barbara Zinda of Wells Fargo in Carson City. “Our managers are encouraged to sit on a community board, so this helps with understanding what options there are.”

The volunteers enjoy making a difference.

“We’re not here promoting business,” said Chuy Ampudia, a Wells Fargo store manager in Dayton. “We’re here to lend a hand.”

Proceeds from the gala will help fund STEM academic programs such as astronomy and physics at the college.

“Reach for the Stars” tickets and sponsorships are still available. The event includes creative hors d’oeuvres, live music, dancing, and sky gazing of the evening sky. There will also be the opportunity to purchase amazing photos of the planets and the night sky.

Tickets are $99 per person, $185 per couple and $720 for a table of eight. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Jessica Plett at 775-445-3240 or go to wnc.edu/foundation/reach-for-the-stars/.