​LITTLE ROCK, AR (February 15, 2017) – The fourteenth annual Chocolate Fantasy Ball was the sweetest yet, setting a new record for money raised to help families stay close to their children who are being treated in area hospitals. The event brought in over $390,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Arkansas (RMHCA) to use in serving families who need a "home-away-from-home".

The black-tie event was held on Saturday, February 11, 2017 in the Wally Allen Ballroom at Statehouse Convention Center. It brought together over 650 guests who enjoyed signature chocolate martinis, 6,000 pieces of decadent chocolate delights, dining, dancing, spectacular live auctions, over 300 silent auctions and a unique raffle. KTHV’s Craig O’Neill served as the event’s emcee and Doug Westgate with Wilson Auctioneers performed the live auction.

Carla Gunderman, who has volunteered with Chocolate Fantasy Ball for the past five years, was Chair of this year’s successful event. The 2017 honoree was Susie Morgan who was recognized for her hard work, dedication and accomplishments as a Ronald McDonald House volunteer and board member. 

“We are extremely grateful for our friends and partners in the community who stepped up to support the 2017 Chocolate Fantasy Ball,” said RMHCA Executive Director Janell Mason. “It costs much more to operate our new facility, so we needed to grow this year’s event to continue giving families a free place to call home during very stressful times. Thanks to our sponsors, donors and attendees, it was the most successful gala to date.”

The Chocolate Fantasy Ball raises money to support the two core programs of RMHCA. The Ronald McDonald House® is a 32-bedroom "home-away-from-home" that provides housing and services to families who have a child receiving treatment at an area hospital. The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile® is a 40 foot, state-of-the-art mobile unit that provides free, full-service dental care and education to children who would not otherwise have access to dental care.

For more information about Chocolate Fantasy Ball or Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas, please visit www.rmhcarkansas.org or call (501) 978-3118.