We would like to thank everyone who supported or attended the 2009 Amigos de las Américas (AMIGOS) Gala on May 2, 2009 at Hotel ZaZa in Houston.  

It was our first year hosting the special annual event at the Hotel ZaZa and we enjoyed every moment of the evening, which included a silent auction with artisan items from Latin America, live music by Mary’s Band, a baile folklorico performance, Mexican hot chocolate and top-notch cuisine. 

The highlight of the evening with the presentation of the inaugural AMIGOS Ambassador Award to George Donnelly, the honoree, for his longtime service to AMIGOS. Gala Chairs Lupe and Irene Fraga presented the award. 

Donnelly first became involved in AMIGOS as the International Board Chair in 1978. He and his wife, Lorena, who died in 2007, were named honorary chairs of the AMIGOS Gala in 1995. Additionally, Donnelly served as the master of ceremonies for the AMIGOS business luncheon in 2007 and 2008 and was on the gala committee in 2008. At the event, the Lorena Donnelly Fund in honor of Donnelly’s late wife was announced. For additional information about the fund, please visit the Foundation for Amigos de las Américas website. Donnelly is the Managing Partner of Lilo Ventures, a privately held venture firm that operates in Latin America.  

The International Destination Raffle winner was also announced the night of the Gala. The winner, Laurie Howick, will enjoy an all-inclusive trip for two to Buenos Aires, Argentina.  

Thank you again to everyone who attended the special event, with a special thanks to our underwriters. The donations received that night will support scholarships to develop more youth leaders and will provide materials for education, health and environmental community development projects in Latin America. 

View Photos from the Event