YOUR Community Partner: Mardi Gras State of Mind

Jan 27, 2023 at 09:58 am by RMGadmin


Mardi Gras Ball Benefiting My Friend’s House

BY Amelia Rose Smith

It is that time of year again! Time to pull out those masks, ball gowns, tuxedos and beads! It is time to celebrate and socialize, but, most importantly, support a wonderful cause in our community – My Friend’s House. My Friend’s House’s mission is to serve neglected, abused or at-risk boys, ages twelve to eighteen, in state custody by offering a home-like environment with a balance of safety, structure, encouragement, care and expectations. Their mission continues to advocate for each resident to be able to recover from the adverse situation and become successful young adults.

Meet YOUR  2023 Mardi Gras Royal Court Couples

Mardi Gras Ball. This honor is bestowed upon the couple who raises the most money, and the announcement is the highlight of the evening.
Team Duncan-Martin

Sydney and Tad  

As Williamson County residents, what does
My Friend’s House mean to you?
S: It shows me that the people in Williamson County saw a need and band together to fill it. In high school, I was part of a mentoring program for freshmen, and part of my children were in the system. So, I experienced firsthand foster children dealing with the stigma of being in the system, and I can commend My Friend’s House for offering a service to these children.
What are you most looking forward to at
this year’s ball? 
S: I can not wait for the fantastic New Orleans-style food they will serve. 
T: The competitive side of me wants to say seeing if myself and Sydney raised the most money, and the more laid back side is excited to see everyone having a good time, eating good food and celebrating.
 
What do you love most about Williamson County? 
T: Williamson County is really the tight-knit community of a small town, but it’s just bigger. Everyone here cares.

Team Hagan

Kate and Brandon 

When you were approached about being a Royal Court member, what prompted you to say “yes”?
K: We have been to the ball for several years, and the mission of My Friend’s House really touched us, so we wanted to help raise awareness and funds for them to continue helping the boys they serve. 
B: The community has been good to us, and we feel like this is a good way to give back. 
 
As Williamson County residents, what does My Friend’s House mean to you?
K: I think sometimes living in Williamson County can make it easy for us to put on blinders and rose-colored glasses, but people in our community need our help. These boys have been dealt a hand they didn’t deserve, and we are thankful to My Friends House that they work so hard to give them a fighting chance for a brighter future. 
B: My Friends House is a reminder that we all need a helping hand from time to time and it’s important to extend yours to lend help when you can. 
 
What do you love most about Williamson County?
K: I was born and raised here. Williamson county is my home, and I couldn’t imagine raising my son anywhere else. 
B: Williamson County understands that it’s our responsibility to be there for each other, and that is part of what makes it so special.

Team Goal Diggers

Bethany and Taylor 

When you were approached about being a Royal Court member,
what prompted you to say “yes”?
 
B:  I was approached by Taylor to be his side kick on this journey to raise awareness and funds for My Friend’s House. I immediately jumped at the opportunity to be the Robin to his Batman. Especially since I went to the ball and was a sponsor last year because of Courtney Hunter. 
 
As WC residents, what does My Friend’s House mean to you? 
B: I grew up poor in an unstable home environment. My parents did the best they could with the resources they had. I was fortunate to live in a community that supported and believed in me. This is my opportunity to do the same for others, such as My Friend’s House. I love what this organization represents and its impact on youth. 
T:  I grew up very modestly and knew some kids that could have used an organization like this in Fort Worth. I think this community has much pride, and change can be made locally with the right support. Knowing this organization is directly benefiting the kids in our neighborhoods is a great feeling.
 
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s Ball? 
B:  The party, getting dressed up and winning the crown. 
T:  The party is great! I also really look forward to winning that crown!
 

My Friend’s House Facts
  • My Friend’s House (MFH) began as Williamson County Youth, Inc. (WCY) at its inception.
  • It was the brainchild of Judge Jane Franks, after a young girl came before her on the bench and had no safe environment to go home to.
  • WCY was chartered in November 1982.
  • The first residents were a mix of teenage boys and girls. That did not last long.
  • The name changed in 2008. The switch to My Friend’s House was done in large part to help ease the stigma the boys experienced referring to their stay in a group home. Being able to say they were staying at “My friend’s house” didn’t raise as many questions or eyebrows from their peers.
  • In November 2019, the new 5,000+ square foot home was built behind the original house

Krewe Party

January 26th, 6pm – 8pm

Tony’s Eat & Drink

Tickets: $20 online/at the door 

One ticket = One vote  

All ages are welcome! Food and drink are available
for purchase as well.

February 18th, 5:30pm


2023 Mardi Gras Ball

Embassy Suites in Cool Springs

Tickets: $250

The evening includes a cocktail hour, dinner, live music and dancing. The evening culminates with the crowning of the 2023 Mardi Gras Ball King and Queen! 


For more information on My Friends’ House visit, myfriendshousetn.org. See you at the Ball!