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Austin’s Black & White Ball Sets New Fundraising Record for Texas Advocacy Project

See highlights from the elegant evening dedicated to empowering abuse survivors through advocacy and support

NewHeather Bellino, TAP CEO and Jamie Imber, 2025 BWB Chair
Heather Bellino and Jamie Imber (photo by Keira Hand Photography)

More than 500 local leaders, philanthropists and advocates gathered at the JW Marriott on Sept. 20 for the 2025 Black & White Ball, presented by DaBella. The annual gala raised a record-breaking $1.27 million in support of Texas Advocacy Project (TAP), advancing the organization’s mission to provide free legal and social services to survivors of abuse across Texas.

The night opened with a dazzling Red Carpet Event, presented by Biote, where guests arrived in sleek black-and-white attire, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Inside the grand ballroom, attendees enjoyed a chef-prepared dinner and an exciting live auction. Later, there was a presentation of the annual Courage Award honoring a former TAP client whose story of resilience embodied the strength and empowerment the organization works to instill in every survivor it serves.

Amber Lee Diamond, Christy Carlson Romano, Emily Travis, Jordan Canova, Emily Andrus, Kaity Biggar
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Amber Lee Diamond, Christy Carlson Romano, Emily Travis, Jordan Canova, Emily Andrus & Kaity Biggar (photo by Keira Hand Photography)
Adam & Amanda Sencenbaugh
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Adam & Amanda Sencenbaugh (photo by Keira Hand Photography)
Demetria Caston
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Demetria Caston (photo by Keira Hand Photography)
Catherine Brophy, Jenna Glass, Alison Watters
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Catherine Brophy, Jenna Glass and Alison Watters (photo by Keira Hand Photography)
Tim & Alison Watters
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Tim & Alison Watters (photo by Keira Hand Photography)

Record-breaking fundraising night

When the formal program concluded, the lights dimmed and the tempo lifted for the Afterglow Party, presented by BMW of Austin.

By evening’s end, the Black & White Ball had far surpassed its fundraising goals, ensuring that survivors across Texas will continue to have access to legal advocacy, safety planning, and essential support systems that help them rebuild their lives with dignity and strength.

Visit their website to learn more about Texas Advocacy Project’s mission or to make a contribution.