Cora Black and Ivy Awino Chair 'Cocktails for a Cause', Help Raise $100K for Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas

Supporters of Planned Parenthood gathered in Dallas to raise funds for essential healthcare and health education services, including breast and cervical cancer screenings, STD testing and treatment, birth control, and pregnancy testing. 

Ivy Awino and Cora Black, who are both alumnae of The Hockaday School and notable advocates in Dallas, served as co-chairs. Ivy Awino, also known as DJ Poizon Ivy, is a Dallas Mavericks personality, while Cora Black has made a significant impact on the Dallas political landscape. 

Cora Black and Ivy Awino AKA DJ Poison Ivy co-chair Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas' Cocktails for a Cause fundraiser on March 30.Photo byUsed Courtesy of: Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas

The event, raising nearly $100k, highlighted the importance of essential healthcare, health education, diversity, inclusion, and acceptance in creating a more equitable future for all.

"Cheers to our voices being heard today," said co-chair Cora Black, "and to the incredible work of Planned Parenthood in supporting our community."

Notable attendees included Mary Cook, Grace Cook, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins, Assistant District Attorney Lauren Black, Sarah Catherine Perot, Dr. Amit Patel, and former state Senator and current Senior Advisor to Planned Parenthood Texas Votes, Wendy Davis.

Guests at Cocktails for a Cause raise a toast.Photo byUsed Courtesy of: Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas

Shawn Wills, Chief Development Officer of Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, stated, "Planned Parenthood is a lifeline for so many people who would otherwise be left without access to critical services. Thanks to the generosity of our Dallas community, we can continue to fight for a world where everyone has the right to healthcare and education, no matter who they are or where they come from."

In 2022, Planned Parenthood provided more than 100,000 healthcare visits, including a full range of birth control methods such as IUDs and implants, breast and cervical cancer screenings, testing and treatment for STIs (including HIV tests), PrEP and PEP medication to prevent HIV transmission, treatment for urinary tract and vaginal infections, annual well checks, transgender hormone therapy, and other essential healthcare needs.

Ken Lambrecht, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, addresses the crowd at Cocktails for a Cause on March 30.Photo byUsed Courtesy of: Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas

Ken Lambrecht, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, expressed his pride in the Dallas community's support for the organization. "Our doors are and will remain open, and we're not going anywhere," he said. "Throughout our 85-year history, we have faced many challenges, none of which we have not been able to overcome with the support of this community."

Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas remains committed to providing critical health services and vital educational resources to those in need, regardless of their insurance or documentation status, income level, location, or sexual orientation.