For the Love of All
For the Love of All
Genesis House of Olean to host charity fundraiser gala February 7th
As a people, we are only as strong as the support we can give each other. Caring for each other, helping those in need… that shows who we are as human beings. And on February 7th from 6:00-9:00pm, you can help those in need in our local area at the Genesis House’s “For the Love of All” Charity Gala at the First National Bank in Olean, NY.
What is Genesis House? Founded in 1995, the agency operates two homeless shelters in Olean. In addition, the Genesis House can serve up to three families and 17 adults. They also operate as a Code Blue Warming Center in the winter. The mission of Genesis House is to provide secure temporary housing and support services as homeless adults and families transition to more stable housing.
Why is Genesis House so important to the community? Paula Bernstein of the Tri-County Arts Council explained, “Genesis House gives people who are trying to get on their feet a stable place to do that. In addition, they serve as the Code Blue Warming Center for the county on cold nights, so any person without a home to go back to can still come in and have a warm place to sleep. No one should have to be out in the cold.”
The annual charity gala helps raise much of the funding needed for the organization to continue its everyday operations. If you attend, you’ll not only be helping keep a wonderful local asset open but you’ll be helping to keep care accessible to the members of our community who most need it. This is the first time in two years that the gala will be back in person, instead of virtual.
Tickets to the Genesis House’s “For the Love of All” Charity Gala are $60 per person, adults only. The night will feature a cocktail (cash bar) and appetizer reception catered by Olean’s own Century Manor Restaurant.
There will also be a raffle to participate in, with some exceptionally good prizes. Raffle tickets can be purchased in advance online, “We have several exclusive raffle items including a bespoke dinner for four at Century Manor, a limited edition Bourbon Basket, and a Mikel Wintermantel painting,” said Paula.
Attending the gala is the perfect opportunity for supporters to hear about the growth and programs that Genesis House offers and to meet/interact with the staff. There is a staff of 15 full- and part-time professional social service workers who work with the residents. Volunteers supplement the work the staff does by providing support in a variety of different ways. The community will have the chance to get to know the people behind the scenes.
This gala is also a special occasion for one lucky volunteer. The highlight of the event will be honoring this year’s winner of the “Marion B. Scott Award.” This prestigious award is presented to a volunteer who go above and beyond in their dedication to supporting The Genesis House. The winner of the 2025 award is Karen Butler of Olean, for her many years of dedicated service.
"The Genesis House plays such an important part of this community. It is a hug for those in need and a safe place for them to take a breath and know that someone cares,” said Karen. “Our community is very supportive of the Genesis House and people are willing to provide for those who are in need. Giving back to the community is just a part of life. Volunteering comes with living in a community, supporting our children in school or belonging to a church, helping neighbors and providing help to organizations in need. To me it seems natural, and working with the people at Genesis House has expanded my appreciation for all they do and all that needs to be done. I have met mothers and children that have been helped by Genesis House and they have many kind words and appreciation.”
We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. So carve out some time to attend the “For the Love of All” Charity Gala, hosted by the First National Bank, 101 North Union Street in Olean, NY on February 7th. Gala and raffle tickets can be purchased at genesishouseofolean.org. If you can’t make it to the gala, consider volunteering; they can always use some extra hands. Or you can donate household/living necessities by dropping items off directly to Genesis House, 107 S. Barry Street, Olean, NY.