Gingerbread & Jazz
Get ready for a magical night at the 29th Annual Gingerbread & Jazz Gala.
Ticket Options
$250 VIP Legacy Dinner
$125 Gala Ticket
$1,250 Gala Party Table
Location
The Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch
We’re returning to the majestic Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch for our Gingerbread & Jazz Gala—one of the most naturally beautiful venues in Colorado. On November 7th, Early Connections will once again transform this stunning indoor space for an unforgettable evening filled with delightful bites, joyful music, laughter, and purpose. Together, we’ll raise critical funds to ensure children in Colorado Springs have access to the highest quality early education and care.
Event Details
Directions & Parking
Jazz Hands: Meet our Musicians
Gingerbread Magic: Meet our Bakers
live Auction lot
Sparkling
Chardonnay
2016 Peter Michael Cuvee Indigene WA100
2017 Kongsgaard The Judge WA100
Pinot Noir
2019 Raen Sea View JS98
2019 Peter Michael Ma Danseuse JS99
Cabernet Sauvignon
2007 Joseph Phelps Insignia WA100
2007 Verite Le Desir WA100
2018 Hundred Acre Morgan’s Way WA100
2016 Harlan Bond Quella JS100
Dessert Wine
Frequently asked questions
The Gingerbread & Jazz Gala promises to be an elegant evening where class meets charm. While cocktail attire is encouraged, guests are welcome to embrace the spirit of the venue with formal western. The Saddle Ballroom will be beautifully decorated to create a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a night of fine dining and jazz.
The Gingerbread & Jazz Gala at the Flying W Ranch will be a cozy and warm event, perfect for a November evening. Hosted indoors in the elegant Saddle Ballroom, guests can expect a comfortable atmosphere, regardless of the chilly weather outside. The main ballroom is well-heated, with additional ancillary spaces featuring heated floors, ensuring warmth throughout the venue. The Flying W Ranch is well-equipped to handle the November elements, providing a welcoming and pleasant environment for all attendees to enjoy the evening to the fullest.
Free parking is provided, and although valet service isn’t available, staff will be on hand to direct you to a parking spot.
The Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit (CCTC) is a state tax incentive designed to encourage donations to promote child care in Colorado. Individuals, businesses, and organizations that donate to qualifying child care programs or organizations in the state can receive a tax credit worth 50% of the total contribution amount. Donors can claim a tax credit equal to 50% of their total contribution. For example, a $1,000 donation could yield a $500 tax credit on the donor’s Colorado state income tax return.
Our annual Gala fundraiser is a cornerstone event for our non-profit, serving as a crucial source of funding that sustains our programs throughout the year. The financial contributions raised during this event have the power to profoundly shape the futures of the children we serve. Your generous donations provide the essential resources, materials, and opportunities that our children need to thrive. Whether it’s funding educational tools or creating enriching experiences, your support acts as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring that every dollar you give goes directly toward nurturing young minds and fostering a lifelong love of learning.
why we host this event
All funds raised from the Gingerbread and Jazz Gala go directly to Early Connections Learning Centers, supporting our vital early education programs
Our annual Gala is essential to sustaining our work year-round—your support fuels life-changing programs, empowering children with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
There is a shortage of spots in high-quality early education programs, especially for younger children. Our capital campaign aims to address this by expanding our capacity.
The cost of child care poses a significant challenge for many families, particularly those with lower incomes who struggle to afford even essential care. Our sliding scale fee structure aims to make child care more affordable and accessible for these families.
Our nationally accredited programs include a literacy-focused curriculum, family support activities, nutritious meals and snacks, physical and behavioral health support, and highly qualified professional staff.
sponsors
Be front and center at Gingerbread & Jazz by becoming a sponsor! Our sponsorship levels are flexible and deliver meaningful benefits to our partners. Contact our Development Director, to realize your vision of support: info@earlyconnections.org | (719) 381-4803
Platinum
Gold
Mike & Diane Bell
Silver
