Tek Forward announces first Black & Green Gala to benefit veterans being held Saturday, Nov. 1

PALMYRA, Mo. — Tek Forward, a local non-profit focused on accessible technical education and community engagement, has announced the first Black & Green Gala to Benefit Veterans, a formal charity event set to take place at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov.1.

In a press release, Luis Barnes co-chair of the Black and Green Gala committee and executive director of Tek Forward, said, “My two step brothers, my brother-in-law, my father-in-law—all my life I have been surrounded by veterans, have heard all the stories, good and bad. I am now in a position to do something about it, and raising what we can to help those organizations helping the veterans, their kids, their families, its a start.”,

“I am deeply honored to serve as co-chair for the upcoming Black & Green Veterans Gala this Nov. 1. This event is more than a celebration, it is a tribute to the extraordinary courage, unwavering commitment and enduring legacy of our veterans. These are the men and women who have worn the uniform with pride, who have answered the call of duty with valor and who continue to inspire us with their resilience and sacrifice long after their service. I’m humbled to play a part in creating an evening that reflects the gratitude, respect and unity they so richly deserve.”, added Maygan Huff, co-chair, and agent of American Family Insurance in New London.

The rest of the committee members are: Adam Duesterhaus of Chaddock, Erin Niekamp of the Edwards Group and Monica Puls of Sturhahns Jewelers.

Cost to attend the gala is $75 with veterans admitted free of charge

“It is important to us that veterans understand this event is being done to honor their courage and sacrifice. Charging them any amount just doesn’t seem right,” said Barnes.

The Black & Green Gala, to be held at Beau & Company, in Palmyra, will be raising money for organizations that, as part of their mission, are helping veterans and their families. The VFW Post 11041 (Palmyra), Chaddock (Quincy, Ill.), and The Tri-State Warrior Outreach (Quincy, Ill.) are the 2025 organizations selected to be recipients of the funds raised.

For more information about the Black & Green Gala, to buy tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.blackandgreengala.org or contact Tek Forward at 573-691-5988 Ext 101

Tek Forward’s main purpose is to teach free entry-level software development courses, work with small town businesses in helping understand how technology could benefit them and build community connections by introducing technical skills to technical needs.