Women’s Service League Charity Ball
Women’s Service League Charity Ball Raises Record $42,750 for New Heights CCDA
The Women’s Service League (WSL) Charity Ball raised a record $42,750 in support of New Heights Christian Community Development Association (New Heights CCDA) during the sold-out 2026 Charity Ball held Friday evening at Union + Social in downtown St. Joseph.
The amount represents the largest total ever raised by the Women’s Service League for a single nonprofit organization, continuing the organization’s long-standing tradition of investing in local nonprofits that strengthen families and communities across southwest Michigan.
The annual Charity Ball brought together community members for an evening of dinner, entertainment by Witz DJ Service, and a silent auction, all in support of New Heights CCDA’s work addressing transportation barriers, food insecurity, and community development across Berrien County.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Women’s Service League and to everyone who participated in this year’s Charity Ball,” said Chris Britton, Executive Director of New Heights CCDA. “Events like this remind us what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose. The funds raised will directly support programs that help families gain reliable transportation, access healthy food, and build stability for the future.”
Britton added that the impact of the evening extends far beyond the event itself.
“Support like this allows New Heights to walk alongside families who are working hard but facing real barriers. Reliable transportation, consistent access to food, and strong community connections can change the trajectory of a household. We are deeply thankful for the generosity that made this record-setting night possible.”
Amanda Craig, Chairperson of the Women’s Service League, said the evening demonstrated the community’s commitment to supporting neighbors in need.
“The success of this year’s Charity Ball reflects the generosity and compassion of our community,” Craig said. “It was inspiring to see so many people come together to support New Heights and the important work they are doing for families across Berrien County. We are grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who made this record-breaking event possible.”
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including:
Presenting Sponsor
● Insurance Management Service (IMS)
Platinum Sponsor
● Jay & Deb Craig
Gold Sponsor
● Indiana Michigan Power – Cook Plant
Additional sponsors included Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Brown & Luczak Family Dentistry, CRMP Photography, White Dahlia & Co., Witz DJ Service, Honor Credit Union, Hanson International, Kate & Ryan Hooper, Hannah Bearisto of the Choose Chad Team at Coldwell Banker Realty, Kassidy Binns of The Myers Henry & Hassle Team at @Properties, Midwest Synthetics Oil & Chemical Co., Edgewater Automation, Auto Value Parts Stores, Anderson Building Materials Co., and Weller Auto Parts.
Proceeds from the event will support New Heights CCDA’s programs, including the Auto Ministry, which helps individuals gain or maintain employment through reliable transportation; the Community Food Network, which provides consistent food support and wraparound services; and the Laundry Hub, a community space that fosters connection, access to resources, and neighborhood development.
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About the Women’s Service League
Founded in 1931, the Women’s Service League is dedicated to supporting local nonprofits and strengthening the community through fundraising, volunteerism, and collaborative partnerships.
About New Heights Christian Community Development Association
New Heights CCDA is a Christian nonprofit organization serving Berrien County, Michigan, focused on addressing transportation barriers, food insecurity, and community development through practical programs that restore dignity and create opportunity.
