Rob Giardinelli
“Hope Grows Here” Gala Is Successful With Patrons
By Rob Giardinelli Photography Courtesy of Emily Jaschke and Jacob Powers
THE SETTING: The Revaire was the setting of fun and fundraising benefiting one of the world’s most beloved nonprofit organizations. Over 350 of the city’s top advocates, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the Hope Grows Here gala to support the St. Jude Cancer Research Hospital.
THE VIBE: The black tie optional-attired crowd featured an elegant mix of cocktail dresses, ballgowns, tuxedos, and suits which created a warm, welcoming environment for all. The festivities commenced with a cocktail reception and after guests cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite spirit, they mingled with patrons while perusing the curated silent auction items. All of this was done against the backdrop of elegant music by the Divisi® Amp’d Spring Quartet before partygoers then headed to their seats for the main program.
ABC 13 anchor Melanie Lawson served as emcee keeping the night moving at a fun, engaging pace. As attendees dined on their multi-course meals, they were treated to words from event leaders. Next came emotional testimonials from families who have benefited from the services of St. Jude. A live auction followed where patrons bid on a host of luxury experiences with a 7-day vacation to Tuscany and a VIP Chef’s Experience at Steak 48 being among the most popular. The night was capped off by a keynote address by Rea Foster and honoring Academy Sports+Outdoors with the Inspiring Hope award for their support of the organization.
THE NON-PROFIT: The Hope Grows Here Gala, co-chaired by Neil and Erika Billingsley Michaelson, raised over $730,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The organization provides cancer treatments for children battling cancer, whose patients and families never receive a bill for treatments, housing, food, or travel.
