Party Time: The Haute 5 Galas in Phoenix

Who ever said getting is more fun than giving? Certainly not these five organizations! With the social season kicking up again at the end of the month, here are our Haute 5 black tie affairs and fun-filled charity events. Go ahead, get social and make a difference in the community.

The Jeremy Roenick Kards for Kids Celebrity Poker Tournament and Casino Night for Opportunity, Commitment and Justice Kids

Aug. 28, 2010 | Monterra at WestWorld | 5 p.m. | $60 plus $120 for celebrity poker reserved seat

Jeremy Roenick, a former Phoenix Coyotes hockey player will host this Las Vegas-themed charity event, where you can mingle with celebrities such as former Diamondbacks pitcher Todd Stottlemyre, rapper Marvin “Young MC” Young; Miss Arizona 2009 Vanessa Valero, former NBA player Eddie Johnson, former San Francisco Giant Dax Jones and former NFL linebacker Rodney Thomas. Following the happy hour, try your luck at blackjack, craps, poker, roulette and other casino games, just be sure to stick around for the big poker tournament. A silent auction and raffle will also be held. Proceeds will benefit Opportunity, Commitment and Justice for Kids (OJC Kids), a group that aids at-risk youth by providing them with tools, resources and positive adult role models. Reservations required.

Monterra at WestWorld is located at 16601 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale  480.502.0837

Salute … A Benefit for Children with Arthritis for The Greater Southwest Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation

Oct. 2, 2010 | Chaparral Suites Resort | 6 p.m. | $200

The Greater Southwest Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation hosts this black tie fundraiser complete with cocktails, complimentary champagne, dinner and a silent auction, and the proceeds benefit a camp fund for children with juvenile arthritis. Plan to attend knowing you’re affording these kids the opportunity to enjoy such fun camp activities as horseback riding, archery and kayaking. Reservations required.

Chaparral Suites Resort is located at 5001 N. Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale  602.212.9912

The Crystal Ball for Teen Lifeline

Oct. 23, 2010 | Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa | 6 p.m. | $200

As part of its work to provide support to teens, the organization Teen Lifeline hosts this black tie ball during which attendees will enjoy dinner and a silent auction. During the course of the evening, Teen Lifeline will also present the Alfredo J. Molina Community Lifeline Award to an individual who has contributed to the service of others in extraordinary ways. Reservations are required.

Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa is located at 2400 E. Missouri Ave. in Phoenix  602.955.6600

Knock Out Parkinson’s Jazz Festival for Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center

Nov. 7, 2010 | Scottsdale Plaza Resort | 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | $70-$75

Sponsored by the Parkinson Network of Arizona, this luncheon will include performances by four local jazz groups as well as a number boutique vendors, including Everyday Pasta and Land and Sea Creations. Enjoy the sounds of the Charles Lewis Quintet and the Khani Cole Band as you bust your moves on the dance floor for a good cause. Proceeds will benefit the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, which treats and assists individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders.

Scottsdale Plaza Resort is located at 7200 N. Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale  480.595.6890

Stars of Hope – Handbags for Hope Luncheon for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Feb. 17, 2011 | Country Club at DC Ranch | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | $125

Combine fashion, fun and philanthropy at this handbag fashion show featuring tons of tote-worthy arm candy. You’ll even be able to bid on your favorite handbag as part of the silent auction afterward, and proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, dedicated to finding cures to pediatric cancer.

The Country Club at DC Ranch is located at 9290 E. Thompson Peak Parkway in Scottsdale  480.502.6905