Philanthropists, Advocates, And Community Leaders Gathered At The Fairmont Austin For The ‘Keep Austin Smiling’-Themed Event, Where Emotional Tributes, Spirited Auctions, Casino Fun, And Lively Entertainment Helped Raise Critical Funds Supporting Thousands Of Central Texans In Need

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography By Lucero Creative

THE SCENE: The Fairmont Austin in the heart of downtown was the setting for a beautiful night of fun and fundraising. About 300 of the Capital City’s most notable community leaders, medical advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the “Share the Love” gala. Benefiting Manos de Cristo, the “Keep Austin Smiling”-themed night provided the crowd with a mix of touching tributes highlighting the organization’s mission, along with great fun that those fortunate enough to be part of it will not soon forget.

THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured an elegant mix of formal ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot traditional formal looks that blended seamlessly with those in bold, colored, print, pastel, and metallic looks, creating an environment that was welcoming, fun, and, yes, all smiles.

Kicking off the night was a lively cocktail hour in the Fairmont Austin ballroom foyer. After revelers checked in, they headed to the bar to grab their favorite beverage of choice. With drinks in hand, the crowd mingled with other guests, took a moment to commemorate the evening with a spin in the 360-degree photo booth, and perused a curated yet impressive selection of silent auction items, including luxury items and culinary experiences.

The doors then opened to the Fairmont ballroom, which featured round tables with black linens that beautifully complemented the stunning, low-profile floral centerpieces, a mix of whites and pastels that gave the room a regal vibe. Guests then took to their seats for dinner and the main program.

While guests enjoyed their multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of such a special evening. Devon Chin led a spirited live auction where guests bid on an array of luxury trips and experiences, with an Ireland getaway emerging as the most popular item of the night.

An incredibly special moment of the program was surprising longtime Manos de Cristo supporter Glenn Dukes with an award honoring his decades of support for the organization, which brought the crowd to their feet. This was promptly followed by a Paddles-Up that drove the fundraising totals even higher. Capping off the night was a lively after-party. Partygoers enjoyed an array of casino games, while others hit the dance floor to live music from the Party Lights band that kept the party going well into the night.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 2026 “Share the Love” gala raised over $285,000 for Manos de Cristo. Proceeds from the gala will support services that fulfill the organization’s mission to empower low-income individuals to meet basic needs while promoting dignity and self-reliance. Serving over 30,000 Central Texans each year, Manos de Cristo provides essential services including food and clothing, oral care, and furthering educational development.

Here Are The 7 Standout Highlights From Manos De Cristo’s Share The Love Gala…

The Fairmont Austin Set The Stage For A Glamorous Evening
More than 300 Austin philanthropists and advocates gathered downtown for a stylish black-tie celebration in support of Manos de Cristo.

Cocktail Hour Delivered Luxury And Fun
Guests mingled over drinks, explored silent auction packages featuring luxury items and culinary experiences, and captured memories at a 360-degree photo booth.

Elegant Floral Décor Created A Regal Atmosphere
Black linen tables paired with low-profile floral centerpieces in whites and pastels transformed the ballroom into an inviting and sophisticated space.

Devon Chin Sparked Spirited Auction Bidding
Guests enthusiastically competed for luxury trips and experiences, with an Ireland getaway emerging as one of the evening’s hottest auction items.

Glenn Dukes Received A Surprise Standing Ovation
One of the night’s most heartfelt moments came when longtime supporter Glenn Dukes was honored for his dedication to Manos de Cristo.

Casino Games And Live Music Powered The After-Party
Following the program, guests headed to casino tables and the dance floor where the Party Lights band kept the celebration lively late into the evening.

The Gala Raised More Than $285,000 For Central Texans In Need
Funds from the evening will support Manos de Cristo’s mission to provide food, clothing, oral care, and educational services to more than 30,000 individuals annually.