Fairfield, CT - On Thursday, May 3, Operation Hope of Fairfield will host its 17th Annual Evening of Hope to raise critical funds to end hunger and homelessness for our neighbors in need. This year’s theme is “CincOH de Mayo.” Held at Penfield Pavilion in Fairfield, the evening promises to be a sizzling hot fiesta where friends will celebrate the support and dedication of our surrounding community. The festivities will feature Mexican-inspired cuisine, Community Hero awards, silent and live auctions and more. Guests are encouraged to dress in festive attire.
“Evening of Hope is our most eagerly anticipated fundraiser of the year, offering our guests the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of men, women and families who are truly struggling,” said Operation Hope Board Member and Evening of Hope Chair Darrin Fodor. “We share a commitment with the many businesses and individuals who support Evening of Hope that no one in our community should be hungry, that everyone in our community should have supportive relationships, hope for the future and a place to call home.”
We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors to date: Diamond Sponsors Alan and Betty Feldman and AvalonBay Communities; Ruby Sponsors Black Rock Church, People’s United Bank and Santa Energy; Emerald Sponsors First County Bank, IPS and The Store at First Church Congregational; Sapphire Sponsors Bank of America, Congregation B’nai Israel, Lamburt Corporation Insurance, Shaughnessey-Banks Funeral Home, Turner Construction and TVEyes; and Media Sponsor Fairfield Magazine/TownVibe.
“Evening of Hope is a wonderful event,” said Carla Miklos, Executive Director, Operation Hope. “Not only is it an opportunity to honor some very special friends, it’s also a reminder there are still neighbors who need food, housing and clinical support services right here at home. Our Food Pantry, Community Kitchen and Affordable Housing programs, as well as our soon to be launched Homeless Response Center, provide solutions for those who find themselves newly experiencing homelessness, housing instability or food insecurity. Funds raised at this event help ensure that we are able to address their needs and help them get back on their feet.”
As is tradition, Operation Hope recognizes community members who have helped Operation Hope advance its mission with the following Community Hero Awards:
The Reverend Spollett/Rabbi Waldman Award – Honoree Rabbi James Prosnit, has been the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Israel in Bridgeport since 1990. Rabbi Prosnit has made many contributions to Operation Hope include holding positions as board member, vice-chair, chairman of the board and has served as a valued advisor for many years. Additionally, he is recognized for being a committed community servant whose skills are an asset to all the organizations that benefit from his guidance and service.
The Jacky Durrell Award – Honoree Harry B. French is a lifelong resident of Fairfield and is chairman of Henry C. Reid & Son Jewelers. While Harry’s passion is helping his customers select stunning jewelry and timepieces, giving back to the community has been equally been as important. Through Henry C. Reid, Harry has enjoyed supporting local charities and our community. We also acknowledge his long service through Fairfield Rotary, where he touches so many worthy causes and exemplifies the motto “Service above Self.”
By supporting Evening of Hope, you help Operation Hope directly provide housing, food, counseling and more for our neighbors in need. Join us in one of the following ways:
- Sponsor the event at one of four sponsorship levels
- Purchase an ad in the ad journal
- Donate a live or silent auction item
For sponsorship/ad/auctions information, please contact Director of Development Jennifer O’Neill at joneill@operationhopect.org or 203-292-5588 x210 or purchase online at bit.ly/ohgala2018.
About Operation Hope
The mission of Operation Hope is to provide the opportunity for individuals and families to experience transformative change. By addressing basic needs for food and shelter, as well as offering long-term solutions to hunger and homelessness, including affordable housing, life skills training and personalized clinical support, they help people reach their potential in an environment where compassion inspires dignity and hope. For more
information, contact Operation Hope at (203) 292-5588 or
visit www.operationhopect.org.