A Night to Remember: Celebrating Our Roots and Building New Roofs Gala 2023
Dear Friends and Supporters, we hope this blog finds you well and inspired after last Thursday's gala event. The night 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!
🎥 OPENING VIDEOS:
We were honored to kick off the night with a video introduction by the Mayor, followed by a welcome message from our very own Rafael Pagan.
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.
🎤 FROM THE PODIUM:
Rafael Pagan Jr., and Bill Montana, our esteemed Board Chair, took the stage to share their compelling messages. Rafael highlighted the importance of our paddle raise initiative that promises to double contributions up to $50,000. Bill eloquently captured the essence of the night with the theme 'From Roots to Roof: A Community United Against Homelessness.'
Rafael Pagan Jr., CEO
Bill Montana, Pacific House Board Chair
🏆 HONORING THE TATE FAMILY:
Colin Ng, board member, led an enlightening discussion with Chris Tate about his family's transformative involvement with Pacific House. It was a touching tribute that set the tone for the rest of the night.
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.
🎤 SPECIAL HONORS AND AWARDS:
We presented the Tate Family and the Stamford Rotary Trust Fund with awards for their unwavering dedication to ending homelessness in Fairfield County.
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.'
💪 PADDLE RAISE MOMENT:
Your generosity during the paddle raise was awe-inspiring. With a match of up to $50,000, each contribution was a step toward creating more accessible living options for those in need.
📹 HEARTFELT STORIES:
A video featuring former client and current staff member Jason Jaramillo showcased the resilience and power of community support. Your standing ovation was a testament to the difference we can make together.
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.
🎉 CLOSING REMARKS:
As Elsi Lyons, Chief Marketing Officer for Pacific House, wrapped up the evening, she reminded us of the mission that unites us: Preventing and Ending Homelessness.
Your Support Makes it Possible.
We are profoundly grateful for your unwavering support and partnership. Your contributions enable us to provide affordable housing and a range of essential services that equip our clients with the tools they need for a better life. As we continue to write more success stories and transform lives in our community, know there is still an opportunity to make an impact towards our biggest fundraiser of the year.
Every contribution, big or small, goes directly toward our mission of preventing and ending homelessness. We eagerly look forward to sharing more updates, milestones, and heartfelt stories of transformation with you in the coming months.
With deepest gratitude,
The Pacific House Team
