‘Let’s have a Boombaballa’

What is Boombaballa? 

It’s a party: a gathering of fine people, good food, festive music and inspirational stories.

It’s an opportunity: to meet and mingle with friends and future friends who help improve the lives of women in our community.

It’s a fundraiser: Catherine Place is able to provide Individual Advocacy, Support Groups, and Healing Arts because of the support we receive from donors like you. Thank you!

Where did the name come from?

Judy Mladineo, our second Executive Director, named Boombaballa. Her grandmother was an immigrant from Croatia and when they would have family get togethers her grandmother would say, “Let’s have a Boombaballa.” She told her grandchildren Boombaballa meant fun, joy, happiness, and connection!

When did it start?

Boombaballa has been a Catherine Place tradition since 2006. That year the board decided to have a big party with plenty of good food and lots of fun people as a benefit for Catherine Place. 

The Dancing Lady

In 2013 a new tradition started at Boombaballa. The beloved dancing lady was the logo for Catherine Place from 2005 to 2013. Local Leroy Jeweler crafts a one of a kind pendant of the dancing lady holding a beautiful jewel every year for Boombaballa. The first dancing lady held a diamond, and since then the pendant has also featured anthill garnet, sapphire, topaz, and tsavorite garnet.