Two 1956 cars are among the draws at this year's Trellis Society Soirée, a black-tie fundraiser at the BMO Centre on October 24. A Calgary collector gave both in a single donation: a Mercedes-Benz 300SL "Gullwing" and an Austin-Healey 100M. They got a preview at the Rogers Charity Classic in August and will be on display at the Soirée, where the auction officially opens.

Proceeds will be shared between Trellis and the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation. Trellis's portion moves it closer to its goal of 250 new affordable housing units in Calgary by 2030, while the foundation's share goes to its Emerging Adult Mental Health program, which serves people aged 16 to 24. Overall, the evening raises money for youth and families dealing with homelessness, poverty and mental health challenges.

A silent auction rounds out the fundraising, with a range of experiences and packages donated by local businesses. Bidding starts October 5 and closes at 10:30 p.m. on the night of the event, and can be done online at growwithtrellis.ca/soiree or in person during the cocktail reception. A separate live auction of premium items and experiences takes place from the stage, for attendees only.

Maillot Homes and the rest of this year's sponsors are covering event costs up front, which Angela Clarke, Chief Strategy Officer of the Trellis Society, says means "every dollar raised on October 24 goes directly to programs for youth and families."

Last year's Soirée raised more than $1.3 million for Trellis programs. Matching donors are again doubling what comes in through auction purchases and direct donations, so every $100 given or bid is worth $200 to the cause.