DeafHope’s 8th Annual Glimmer of Hope gala took place on Saturday, February 26, at the Wedgewood Banquet Center in Oakland. The event was themed “An Evening of Miracles” and raised an estimated $32,000 to further DeafHope’s work toward ending domestic and sexual violence against Deaf women and children. Two hundred and thirty people attended the event.
“There was something special in the air,” said Julie Rems-Smario, DeafHope’s Executive Director. “The element of human spirit taking up community accountability to end domestic and sexual violence with love and compassion was evident. The keynote speaker, Erin Esposito, gave a chilling yet inspiring presentation about surviving abuse as a child surrounded by many witnesses, none of whom came to her aid. This testimony is a powerful reminder that creating social changes to end violence lies in our hands. Thank you to everyone who made this evening a miracle.”
Trina Licht was the Chair of the event. The Masters of Ceremonies were Daniel Girard and Jennifer Ann Cook (“JAC”). Entertainment was provided by Sherry Hicks and Michael Velez of Half-n-Half.
VIP waiters raised over $6,000 in tips, the highest amount ever. This year’s VIP waiters were (in random order) Ben Vess, Mike Deming, Patty O’Sullivan, Tom Pennella, Karina Pedersen, Roberta Daniels, Pamela Macias, Natalee Franck, Christine Kanta, Dan Langhotlz, Matthew Gilsbach, Maureen Thompson, Don Lee Hanaumi, Sondra Tessmer, Cathy Davary, Katie Murch, Cheryl Bella, Marsha Helmuth, Leah Bartell, Jennie Batchelder, Greg Haretos, Janet Maxwell, Anna O’Brien, Stacy Gainok, Mary Ann Hencker, Kristeen Thalen, Svenna Pedersen, Jennifer Savage, Bethany Razo, James Green, Jamie Crowley, Vickie Munoz, Nancy Bazzell, April Lindbergh, Terri Whitworth, Sierra Pickett, AJ Johnson, Sharon Roberts, Rochelle Lim, Aracelia Aguilar, and Leala Holcomb.
The next Glimmer of Hope is scheduled for February 25, 2012. Mark your calendars!
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The following photos and commentary are courtesy Ken Arcia. Enjoy!
im so glad i went! still rehashing memories of this spectacular event.