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For Such a Time as This! The sold-out crowd for Down Home’s 7th Annual Hoedown at the Pines on Sunday September 15th, 2024 brought an energy and excitement like never before. Attendees, both new and old, donned their western best! Cowboy hats, fringe vests, flannel shirts, and denim galore were seen as attendees embraced the country-casual Hoedown dress code. Laughter, connections, and music from Chloe Rae’s sweet country sound, filled the space during our social hour - while attendees sipped on one of the signature cocktails - Shindig Sangria or Downhome Punch. The one-of-a-kind silent auction items along the walls caught everyone’s eye. From handmade artisan gifts, unique artwork, and even a specially-made Down Home cowgirl hat - attendees snagged some fabulous items by the end of the night.
As everyone took their seats, they were greeted by a hearty YEEHAW from emcee Allen Jones, from Life 97.9, and found unique Prayer Angel Bowls in the center of their tables. Co-Founder Charlene Kuznia and 2023 Impact Speaker, Wendy Styczynski invited attendees to be part of our circle of prayers by becoming a Prayer Angel for one of the Down Home families. All 38 Prayer Angel Bowls were claimed by the end of the night! Prayer Warrior, Kirstin Schiotz, led the audience in a beautiful opening prayer, reminding us of Down Home’s humble beginnings and how each person in attendance is positioned with purpose “For Such a Time As This” (Esther 4:14) in Down Home’s story. Delicious country cookin’ catered by Chef’s Table left no one hungry! Attendees enjoyed a homestyle meal of delicious pulled pork sandwiches and chicken legs, tasty cheesy potatoes, and don’t forget those signature spicy pickles! A spirited game of Heads or Tails ended in one attendee winning an Amazon gift card! Jake and Jenessa Fillipi, Founders of Down Home, shared an inspiring update of how God has revealed his immeasurably more through Down Home impact in 2024, including serving 38 families - the most ever served in a single year! This incredible update got the ball rolling for the liveliest live auction ever seen at a Down Home Hoedown! 7-time Hoedown Auctioneer, Cody Aasness, captivated the audience as friendly bidding wars ensued across the entire room, adding in a friendly and comedic banter, making the auction an entertaining event for all to enjoy!
The pinnacle of the evening, drawing a standing ovation from the entire crowd, was 2024 Impact Speaker, Dominique Gant’s story from homelessness to hope. She vulnerably shared her journey and how becoming part of the Down Home family has impacted her.
“I was overwhelmed with gratitude when Down Home delivered a beautiful couch, dining table, and bedroom set to my apartment. The furniture was in excellent condition, and made my apartment feel warm and inviting. But more than just the physical items, Down Home's support restored my hope and renewed my sense of dignity. Having furniture in my apartment may seem like a small thing to some. But for me, it made a world of difference. It provided me with a sense of stability and comfort, and it gave me the motivation to start rebuilding my life. Thanks to Down Home, I no longer felt alone in my struggles. I knew that there were people in my community who cared about me, and were willing to support me during my time of need.”
We are grateful to all the table sponsors, attendees, volunteers, partners, and prayer warriors who made this event possible. Mark your calendars for next year’s Hoedown on Sunday, September 21st, 2025!
