Our Gala Was a Huge Success!

On Thursday, October 14, 2021, Family Promise held its first in-person Annual Gala since 2019. The event took place at Seasons in Washington Township, and we’re happy to report that it was a huge success!

The energy in the room was electrifying as guests enjoyed coming together, for the first time in two years, to support Family Promise of Bergen County. Laughs, hugs, and smiles were exchanged throughout the night and reminded us of how lucky we are to have been able to hold this event. This year’s celebrated honorees were the TD Charitable Foundation (Philanthropic Impact Award), West Side Presbyterian Church (Community Impact Award), and Board of Trustees President Paul Shackford (Volunteer Impact Award). Alina Albano was our extraordinary and fabulous MC for the evening. Thank you, Alina!

The Gala featured an inspirational and informative program, a speech by Family Promise National CEO Claas Ehlers, and a touching tribute to our founder, the late Nancy Woods. A mother shared about her journey with Family Promise. Her moving story was told with honesty and deep emotion, and we were so grateful to have her there.

For the first time, we had two Presenting Sponsors—BD and TD Bank. BD has been a Presenting Sponsor of our Annual Gala for many years, and we were thrilled to welcome back such an amazing company to our 2021 Gala! TD Bank was also one of our dedicated returning supporters. Additional sponsors included Promise Sponsor Sharp, Star Sponsors M&T Bank, PKF O’Connor Davies, and PSEG, and Family Friend Sponsors Bogota Savings Bank Charitable Foundation and PNC Wealth Management.

The Family Promise Gala featured a silent auction with over 50 unique items including a one-week stay in Kiawah Island, an iPad Air, tickets for a private golf outing at the Ridgewood Country Club, and countless other exclusive experiences and products. The Gala also consisted of a beautiful cocktail hour in Seasons’ picturesque Garden Room, an open bar, live music, and a magnificent wine pull, which sold over 90 bottles!

Thank you to all those who attended the event and supported us through donations, sponsorships, auction items, journal ads, and more.

The proceeds will directly benefit Family Promise of Bergen County’s programs, which provide shelter and support to homeless working families and those at risk of becoming homeless. We look forward to seeing you again in 2022!