Annual Gala

Empower4Life invites you to help us fight the devastating impacts of homelessness on children in Baltimore by supporting our Annual Gala.

Little Kids, Big Dreams will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 7 - 11 PM at The Port Discovery Atrium located at 35 Market Pl in Baltimore, Maryland.

The evening will include a silent auction, gourmet cuisine, exciting raffles, and exquisite music. During the night’s program we will announce this year’s winner of the beloved Bob Award.

The theme "Little Kids, Big Dreams" will celebrate the untainted aspirations of the youth we support with elegant decor and thoughtful touches to create a night that guests won't soon forget.

Proceeds from this annual event support our educational programs that take place in the homeless shelters we serve, our summer camp program, and increase our support network in the communities we operate within. You can learn more about Empower4Life here.

Each table at the event seats 10 and requests can be made to be seated with others, so bring some friends or colleagues to make memories with! Your support will directly help children in Baltimore living through homelessness.

Get Tickets

Silent Auction

The silent auction is open to EVERYONE, not just gala attendees!

Bidding opens at noon on 10/16 and closes at 10:20 PM on 10/17.

You will be able to view and bid on items for our silent auction easily on our virtual auction website. Whenever you are outbid, you will receive a text message for an opportunity to increase your bid instantly!

If you joined us in years past you will be able to simply enter your phone number on the site to receive a one-time passcode for quick re-entry.

Gala Silent Auction Site

Be Entered to Win Complimentary Car Service For the Night!

Those who add a donation during checkout for their gala tickets on or before September 2nd will be automatically entered to win one complimentary round trip SUV or Sedan transportation service to and from the gala for 1 couple/2 passengers! Every $10 donated will equate to 1 entry into the raffle. The more you donate, the more chances you have to win this prize! Winner will be drawn and announced on September 3rd.

Thoroughbred is offering discounted rates for those interested in booking transportation service for the night of the event. More information on rates and other details can be found here.

Can’t make the gala but want to get involved?

FUND THE MISSION

You can still support the Annual Gala by making a donation to Fund the Mission! Your donation will support Empower 4 Life's mission.

Make a Donation

Sponsorship Packages

We have several different sponsorship levels for individuals and businesses interested in supporting in a different way. email: zgreaver@gmail.com

Donations

We kindly accept donations for auction or raffle items from businesses or individuals who are willing to donate.
email: silentauction@empower4lifemd.org

Volunteer Opportunities

We are always looking for volunteers that are motivated and eager to help prior to or on the day of the gala.
email: ashley@empower4lifemd.org

Become a Sponsor

Donate Items

Volunteer Your Time

Frequently Asked Questions:

+ What will the parking situation be?

Parking will be at the Harbor Park Garage at 55 Market Place right next door to Port Discovery. Information will be provided later regarding parking vouchers and/or valet parking.

+ What are the hours of the event?

7p – 11p

11p - Onwards: The fun doesn’t stop when the gala ends! Join us for an exclusive after-party at the Leinie Lodge & Beer Garden, just steps away from the venue. This private event, sponsored by Tito’s, kicks off immediately after the gala at 11 PM and is open to all gala attendees. You’ll enjoy a delicious nacho bar, and there will be a cash bar available to keep the drinks flowing. Let’s keep the celebration going in style—see you there!

+ What time does the program start?

The program portion of the event will start around 8p.

+ What is the attire?

Typically, our attire is semi-formal, and we welcome tuxedos, gowns, suits, and cocktail dresses. However, we're a relaxed and easygoing bunch, so wear whatever makes you comfortable as long as you join us!

+ Do I need to physically bring a ticket?

You will receive a QR code via email. You will need to show that QR code upon entry. You can pull it up on your phone or bring a printout.

+ What are the silent auction details?

We are staying "high-tech" with our Silent Auction and donations so that you can electronically bid on silent auction items and make donations directly from your smart phone.

There will be a booth set up at the gala with the ability to make bids and donations in person, but the online functions allow many great features such as: tracking your bids on your phone with real-time notifications if you are outbid, payments directly through the website, and more.

Our silent auction site is now live! You do NOT have to be in attendance or have purchased a ticket to our Little Kids, Big Dreams gala in order to bid!

To set up your account, go to: https://gala.empower4lifemd.org/register on your computer or smart phone.

In the site, you can view and bid on silent auction items and make one-time donations.

During the silent auction, you will receive a text notification if you have been outbid with the opportunity to adjust your bid!

There WILL also be a table at the gala for donations and silent auction bids.

If you have any technical issues or questions regarding the silent auction site, email Brice at brice@empower4lifemd.org.

+ Are there hotels nearby?

Yes, below are links to nearby hotels.

+ Who is the caterer for the evening?

Catering will be provided by Evolved Hospitality, owners of The Local whose executive chef, Zack Trabbold, has earned titles such as Best Chef in Baltimore Magazine for 2022, 2023 and 2024, Best Chef of Maryland through Restaurant Association of Maryland 2023, World Food Championship top 3 finalist, and Best New Restaurant 2022.

+ What do I do if I have a dietary restriction?

You will be prompted to include any dietary restrictions for you or any of your guests during the registration process. If you need to update, please contact: connie@empower4lifemd.org