The 9th Annual Magic & Miracles benefit for Ready, Willing & Working (RWW) was held Wednesday, November 30^th at The Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street, NE.

The event began at 6:00pm with cocktails, live music by the Herb Scott Jazz Quartet and plenty of delicious food provided by Belga Cafe, Trattoria Alberto and Windows Catering. Guests mingled and placed bids on over 70 silent auction items, varying from exotic getaways to goodies from local businesses. Kourosh Taie entertained and mystified guests with strolling magic.

Guests were invited into the Sprenger Theater at about 7:30pm, where they were greeted by our “Men in Blue,” who handed out programs as they entered. Patty Brosmer, President of Ready, Willing & Working, introduced Master of Ceremonies Kojo Nnamdi, host of WAMU 88.5’s The Kojo Show.

Local 18 year-old singing sensation Adalia Jimenez began the program with the singing of our National Anthem. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen gave powerful remarks during the presentation, offering his praise and support of the program.

The event continued with an inspirational video, The American Dream, which showcased Vincent Orange (President of the DC Chamber of Commerce) for his efforts in passing the Living Wage Act, which raised the wages of our team members by 30%. The video also spotlighted Andrew Lee, Operations Director of the Capitol Hill BID and Ready, Willing & Working, for his tireless devotion to the program and our “Men in Blue”.

Check out the video here, which was filmed and produced by Matthew McClain and Pete Couste. After the video, Patty Brosmer presented both Vincent and Andrew with appreciation awards for their work and support of Ready, Willing & Working.

Next, Case Manager James Perry gave a heartfelt testimony to the audience about his experience working with the “Men in Blue”. Mr. Perry is an integral part of the Ready, Willing & Working program and a great role model for our participants.

The evening concluded with Adalia Jimenez performing a powerful rendition of “Miracle” by Whitney Houston. Guests enjoyed dessert in the Great Hall, generously donated by Shake Shack and District Doughnut. Thank you to our sponsors, silent auction donors and everyone who attended Magic & Miracles. Click here for more photos from the event. See you next year!