RGV Diabetes Association to Host Celebrity Waiter Fundraiser in McAllen

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6 hours ago
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MCALLEN, Texas - The Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association will host its fifth annual Celebrity Waiter Fundraiser on Thursday, March 12, at IBC Bank in McAllen to support programs and services for individuals affected by diabetes.

The event will feature local community leaders and professionals serving as “celebrity waiters,” entertaining guests at their tables while competing to raise the most tips, which will be donated to the association. Organizers said the fundraiser is designed to bring the community together while supporting diabetes education, prevention and outreach efforts across the Rio Grande Valley.

Celebrity waiters scheduled to participate include Savannah Gonzalez, Ruben Plata, Sarah Hammond, Iliana Villalobos, Priyanka Patel, Lesley Chavez, Karla Garza, Odette MacDonald, Natasha Martinez, Gabriel Flores, Julian Witacher, Edward Polaco and Alejandro Guerra.

Lesley Chavez, founder of McAllen-based Ambiance Flowers and Rentals, is known for her work in event décor and floral design and has supported numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the region. Chavez earned a business degree from the University of Texas–Pan American and is a graduate of the School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Mission Mayor Pro Tem Ruben Plata, who has served on the Mission City Council since 2007, is also among the participants. Plata holds a degree in business administration and accounting from the University of Texas–Pan American and has been involved in various civic and community organizations throughout the region.

Organizers said celebrity waiters will invite guests to their tables and serve them throughout the evening, encouraging donations as they compete to raise the most funds for the association.

Community members interested in supporting the fundraiser or donating in support of a celebrity waiter may contact the Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association at 956-318-1900 for more information.