As we savor the festive moods of the holiday season, there’s another special milestone to acknowledge—it’s exactly “Halfway ’til Gala”!
With February 24, 2024, drawing nearer, the Forward Foundation family can’t help but buzz with excitement for our 5th annual Celebratory Gala. This year, the event takes a grand turn, moving to the opulent Cultural Center of India, a venue perfectly aligned with the grandeur of this landmark occasion. But let’s not forget the core of why we celebrate—the magic of community, as well as the impact of donor and parent interactions.
Soliél Lindsey, our Operations Coordinator, described her first experience at the gala as “truly magical.” She said, “I don’t think I’d ever been to a gala before so to experience it was wonderful. Seeing so many people in the room have a heart for single parents truly blessed me and made me feel overwhelmed with support.” Soliél’s sentiments get to the heart of why this gala is more than just a fundraiser. It’s a declaration: “People actually see and value us!”
These interactions between parents and donors are invaluable, for as Soliél adds, “It’s my hope that all of our parents get to join as often as they can so that they can see the faces of those who have supported their families through difficulty. Not only that, I believe it’s important that our donors get to see and meet our families as well. To hear their stories and be impressed by such an amazing group of single parents should alter their lives and perspective forever.”
Board Member, KC Murphys, echoes the enthusiasm and promise of what’s to come: “The 2024 Gala will be everything and more than years past! It is being hosted in a new luxurious venue to help Forward Foundation celebrate the 5th milestone year of the event.” According to Murphys, it’s not just the venue that’s getting an upgrade. “It will be a fun night with more casino games, dancing and exciting auction items,” she notes, inviting everyone to “get glammed up to spend a memorable evening supporting the most deserving Forward Foundation and help them celebrate this landmark event.”
As we reach the halfway mark to this momentous occasion, we are reminded that the gala serves as a unique spotlight, illuminating the strength, resilience, and courage of our single-parent families while offering our donors a close-up view of the lives they are changing. It’s more than casino games, auction items, or a dance floor. It’s a celebration of community and the transformative power of support.
So as we excitedly count down the days, let’s take a moment to appreciate the journey so far and anticipate the unparalleled evening that lies ahead. Let’s commit to making the next six months of preparation, collaboration, and unity worth every second, as we work together to ensure that the 5th milestone year of the Forward Foundation Celebratory Gala will be one for the history books.
We look forward to celebrating with you next year! To stay connected and be the first to learn when Gala tickets go on-sale, subscribe to our Forward Foundation Newsletter. https://forwardfoundationva.org/contact-us/#newsletter
