The Heritage Ball, Williamson County’s longest-running black-tie affair, celebrates the outstanding preservation work of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, and serves as the largest annual fundraising event for future preservation efforts.
This year, three longtime residents of Franklin have teamed up to celebrate the event’s Golden Anniversary as Sondra Morris and Marilyn and Calvin LeHew join forces to ensure Williamson County’s past and future merge to create magic for the next generations.
Sondra Morris is a long-time supporter of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County and was the 2021 recipient of the Patron’s Award in 2021. She also serves on the executive committee of the Board of Directors for the Heritage Foundation. Marilyn and Calvin LeHew are known for many chapters in the history of their community, one being the creation of
Carter’s Court and the other when they saved the Factory and made it a shopping and entertainment destination. More recently for all to learn and enjoy is the Franklin Innovation Center at the LeHew Mansion.
Nashville Lifestyles: What is it about the Heritage Ball that made you want to get involved as a chairperson?
Sondra Morris: I have attended the Heritage Ball many times over the past 43 years. With this being the 50th anniversary, I was honored to be asked to serve as chair. I see this as a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for the Heritage Foundation, an organization that is near and dear to my heart.
Calvin LeHew: We gave it some thought and decided to accept it. We were concerned about the amount of time it would take but there is a wonderful staff, and their team knows how to put on an incredible event.
Marilyn LeHew: I remember picking flowers and drying them for arrangements for the tables many years ago. We did it with no money in the past. I’m frugal so someday I’d like to do it like we used to where men even built and painted the dance floors!
NL: How are the funds raised by the event utilized and how much has been raised over the years?
SM: The funds raised through the Heritage Ball are used to support the Foundation’s work in carrying out its mission of saving the places and stories that matter in Williamson County.
CL: The Foundation raises more than $100,000 every year.
NL: Why do you think supporting the heritage of Franklin is so vital to our community?
SM: Franklin is a beloved community, known nationally for its commitment to historic preservation. As Williamson County continues to grow, it is vital that the Heritage Foundation continues its work to advocate for “smart growth.” Additionally, as an educator myself, I see the value in the educational programs offered by the Foundation to raise up the next generation of preservationists.
NL: What in your background do you think most prepared you to chair an event of this magnitude?
SM: By nature, I am a person who loves attending beautiful events, especially for a great cause! I have always loved entertaining, florals, music, and camaraderie with friends. All of that combined has made working on this event a real pleasure for me this year.
ML: We’ve been long-time supporters of the Heritage Foundation and have participated in the Heritage Ball for many years back to when there wasn’t a budget and we made the decorations ourselves. We’re happy to co-chair with Sondra Morris who is doing a lot as a chair. We enjoy attending the meetings and offering advice when asked.
NL: What inspires you to utilize your time, talents, and treasure to support nonprofits?
SM: I have the privilege of serving on several boards, volunteering my time, and making gifts that I hope will make a difference both today and for the next generation. I am inspired by the people I’ve met as well as by having opportunities to find solutions for needs in our community. I find real joy in working with others to make a difference in Middle Tennessee.
CL: We have the funds to give, and it rewards us in so many ways. When you give you receive and it’s the law of the universe.
ML: Karma never loses an address; positive or negative.