Phoenix Indian Center’s Silver & Turquoise Ball a Success as it Returns to a Live Format
The event raised money for the center’s programs and recognized departing CEO Patti Hibbeler’s many years of service
Phoenix, AZ — Phoenix Indian Center’s premier fundraising event, Silver & Turquoise Ball, took place October 22, 2021, at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. The event was also live streamed for virtual attendees, and included entertainment by Yellow Bird Productions and an Indigenous-inspired menu designed by Chef Freddie Bitsoie (Navajo) and Chef Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz (Xicana/Tewa).
“This year, we developed the event around the theme of ‘resilience,’ which really defined what we have all been through during the pandemic,” said event chair Treena Parvello, director of public relations and communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise. “We also had the opportunity to honor Patti Hibbeler’s 17-plus years of service to Phoenix Indian Center, and celebrate her as she moves on to her new position.”
“This annual event supports our essential work with the urban American Indian population. I’m so proud of the work we’ve done, and this was the perfect capstone to my tenure as CEO,” said Hibbeler.
The Silver & Turquoise Ball also featured live and silent auctions highlighting American Indian art, jewelry and experiences. John Echohawk (Pawnee), executive director of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), was honored with the 2021 Leon Grant Spirit of the Community Award. He has been recognized as one of the 100 most influential attorneys in America by the National Law Journal. He exemplifies resilience through his work in providing assistance to tribes, organizations, and individuals who might have otherwise gone without adequate representation, and has consulted with policymakers and organizations to shape the laws that help assure the civil and religious rights of all Native Americans.
