Gingerbread
& Jazz

Saturday, November 9

We’re going to the ranch!

Don’t miss our beloved gala featuring fine foods, signature cocktails, musical performances, and ultimate Gingerbread Masterpiece challenge. Join us for an elegant evening celebrating the 27th Gingerbread & Jazz Gala at the enchanting Flying W Ranch.

Location

flying w ranch logo

Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch 

We’re bringing our Gingerbread & Jazz Gala to the majestic Saddle Ballroom at Flying W Ranch, one of the most naturally beautiful places in Colorado. On November 9th, Early Connections will transform this stunning indoor venue for an unforgettable evening filled with delightful bites, sounds of joy, laughter, and music as we raise critical funds to provide children in Colorado Springs access to the highest quality early education and care.

Event Details

The evening includes musical performances, heavy appetizers, signature cocktails, and the Gingerbread Masterpiece Challenge.
Cocktail Attire or formal western welcomed, but not required.

Directions & Parking

Complimentary parking is available, with ample space for all guests.

live Auction items

The Whiskey House in Nashville
Includes a trip for two with $1,500 stipend for travel, accommodations, and special experience while in Nashville. The Whiskey House tasting will include a tour of their museum of over 800 historical decanters and 4,000 open bottles. Enjoy a tasting of 8-12 pours completely customized around what you enjoy most. The only way to get to the Whiskey House is through a nonprofit event, so do not miss out on this opportunity! The more generous you are with your donation, the more generous the Whiskey House is with you when you visit.
Stay tuned, additional auction items to be announced!

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.

Questions or Concerns? Please call 719-381-4803 or email nschiff@earlyconnections.org

A Special Thanks to our generous sponsors

Together, we are helping raise future leaders by investing in children today

Platinum

Gold

KKTV news 11 logo

Silver

Colorado Trust logo

Bronze

Wataburger logo

Become a sponsor and make sure you’re front and center at the Gingerbread & Jazz Gala!
Gain exposure for your business and support the critical work taking place at Early Connections.

Contact Nicole Anthony Schiff, Development Director, to learn more and realize your vision of support: Nschiff@earlyconnections.org 719-381-4803

Benefiting the Children of Early Connections Learning Centers

All funds raised from the Gingerbread and Jazz Gala go directly to Early Connections Learning Centers, supporting our vital early education programs

High-quality education

Early Connections provides comprehensive early education to children aged 6 weeks to 14 years, focusing on literacy, cognitive development, and social-emotional skills. This early foundation is vital for long-term academic success.

Availability

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.

Affordability

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.

Quality education

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.

Donation Only

Can’t make it to the party but still want to support our important cause? Make a donation and know that 100% goes to providing children the critical care and early education they need to thrive and become our city’s future leaders.