2026 A Night of Hope & Healing Gala

It was an unforgettable event at The Bank at East End, decorated beautifully in our colors, with the most helpful and welcoming staff. Dove Audio Visual & Lighting went above and beyond to make sure every speaker was heard and each slide appeared at exactly the right time. Our emcee, Danita Harris, engaged the crowd with energy and enthusiasm all evening, and Hubb’s Groove drew people to the dance floor until the very end.

Amongst all this joy, we did not forget the gravity of our work and the purpose of the occasion. Our CEO, Teresa Stafford-Wright, emphasized recent events regarding sexual assault, honored those we have lost to domestic violence, and highlighted innovations Hope & Healing has achieved amidst funding uncertainty. Our newest board member, Stephanie Lowry, gave an impassioned speech about her own experience with our services. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church accepted the NO HARM Award (made by Akron Glass Works) for its integral part in our Holiday Giving Program for the past five years.

Thanks to our amazing sponsors, raffle and auction donors, and every singled person in the room who bought a ticket, placed a bid, or made a donation, we raised over $100,000 for vital resources, care, and comfort to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

Stay tuned for more information about next year’s gala. You won’t want to miss it!