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HOPEGROWS 2023
ith more than 150 guests in attendance, we held our first HopeGrows fundraising event on September 7 at the Taubman Museum in Roanoke, Virginia. The event brought together philanthropists, community leaders, and compassionate individuals who share a common goal of elevating HopeTree’s programs while making a positive impact on those they serve. The dinner and silent auction fundraiser raised $56,000 to support the mental and behavioral health services HopeTree provides to families across Virginia. Silent auction packages included a mix of experimental packages and goods, including items such as event tickets, hotel stays, helicopter rides, autographed guitars, jewelry, art, and more. Guests were also entertained by the jazz offerings of Flat Five Jazz from Lynchburg, Virginia. Additional support for the event came through generous sponsorships from our partners at WSLS 10, The Roanoke Times, Atlantic Union Bank, Platinum Heat & Air, United Healthcare Community Plan, McGriff Insurance Services, and Truist. News anchor for WSLS 10, the Roanoke NBC affiliate, Jenna Zibton served as master of ceremonies in a night that was highlighted by keynote speaker Tori Hope Petersen. Tori is the best-selling author of Fostered and a sought-after National Speaker inspiring audiences to change the world by simply loving their neighbor. Winner of the Mrs. Universe pageant and a Track and Field AllAmerican in college, Petersen is an advocate in foster care, telling her story about being a former foster youth and overcoming obstacles through her faith. The biggest surprise came in the form of Emaleigh Smith when she was honored with a fullride scholarship to the University of Lynchburg by the President of the university, Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar. At the age of 12, Emaleigh was the first child ever featured during 30 Days of Hope on WSLS 10, the Roanoke NBC affiliate, when the project started in 2017. 10 News partners with HopeTree for 30 Days of Hope, where every November they show children in Virginia who can be adopted.
We are grateful to our event sponsors and attendees, whose unwavering support made HopeGrows possible. Their commitment to HopeTree’s mission and dedication to transforming lives demonstrates the power of collaboration in effecting real change. We look forward to seeing everyone in Richmond at next year’s HopeGrows in September 2024!
150+
ATTENDANCE
29
SILENT AUCTION PACKAGES
$56,000 RAISED
Caring Times - Fall 2023
15
