THANK YOU!
You ALL made our 2023 Gala a night that was truly magical, filled with heartfelt stories, impactful speeches, and the palpable spirit of a community united against homelessness. If you couldn't join us or want to relive the magic, then follow along for the evening highlights below!
Mayor Caroline Simmons opens the Pacific House 2023 Gala with a heartfelt message. Her commitment to making Stamford an inclusive and equitable community aligns perfectly with Pacific House's mission. 'From Roots to Roof, a Community United against Homelessness' is more than a slogan; it's a call that resonates with us all. Your involvement tonight is an investment in a community where everyone finds a roof and roots.
Join Rafael Pagan Jr., CEO of Pacific House, as he welcomes you to a night of transformation and collective power at the 2023 Gala. Nearly 40 years ago, Pacific House was an emergency shelter. Today, it's a dynamic organization providing permanent supportive housing to over 140 tenants. Hear stories of triumph and the profound impact your support has on those we serve.
Meet the Tate Family, longstanding supporters of Pacific House, and learn about their heartfelt dedication to ending homelessness in Fairfield County. Discover how Chris Tate's early involvement evolved into a family-wide commitment to change lives. Watch this touching tribute and their collective impact on our community.
Experience the Stamford Rotary Trust Fund's inspiring partnership with Pacific House aimed at ending homelessness. From vision to action, hear how they made the monumental decision to invest in their community for their 100th anniversary. Click here to watch and discover the impact of 'service above self.'
In this powerfully emotional video, hear from Jason J., a former Pacific House client turned staff member, as he recounts the struggles that once distanced him from his mother and how love and community brought them back together. Elsi Lyons shares her motivations, revealing how Pacific House's mission touches her life.
Please join us in honoring The Tate Family as this year's distinguished Honoree and The Stamford Rotary Trust Fund as our esteemed Housing Champion.
The Tate Family, our Honoree, has been a pillar of support for Pacific House for decades. They have unwaveringly demonstrated the enduring power of commitment and active community involvement through various ups and downs.
Our Housing Champion, The Stamford Rotary Trust Fund, embodies the Rotary motto 'Service Above Self.' Comprised of compassionate neighbors, friends, and local leaders, they have been an uplifting force in our community, significantly enhancing health, welfare, and overall well-being through their Community Grants. These grants have been pivotal in supporting community development, perfectly aligning with our broader mission to end homelessness.
Each contributor shines as examples that the fight against homelessness is a collective community effort.
This year's theme, 'From Roots to Roof: A Community United Against Homelessness,' echoes our transformative journey from a men's-only shelter to a comprehensive sanctuary providing vital support services and housing for everyone—men, women, and families. What we've come to understand—and what this year's gathering aims to highlight—is that homelessness is not an isolated issue. Its ripple effects touch families, friends, and the broader community. This is why your support is so crucial. You're not just helping an individual; you're uplifting a network of lives connected to that individual.
