Empower4Life invites you to help us fight the devastating impacts of homelessness on children in Baltimore by supporting our Annual Gala.
Our annual Little Kids, Big Dreams Gala will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 7–11 PM at The Boumi Temple (5050 King Ave in Rosedale, MD), just northeast of Baltimore City.
Here's what to expect...
Your evening includes:
Cocktail Hour featuring passed hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, live cello music, professional photos by Brittany Dunbar, and an opportunity to browse and bid on our silent auction.
A seated dinner and inspiring program highlighting the impact your support makes possible and the announcement of the year’s winner of the beloved Bob Award.
Dancing, celebration, and an after party to close out the evening.
Attire: Formal. Cocktail dresses and suits are welcome, as are gowns and tuxedos. Wear whatever makes you feel your best!
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.
NEW This Year: Join Us Virtually
Can't make it to the gala in person?
For the first time ever, we're offering a Virtual Gala Ticket!
For $40, you'll receive a special package shipped directly to your home so you can enjoy the evening from wherever you are. You'll also receive access to our live-streamed program and be part of the celebration while supporting our mission.
Silent Auction
The silent auction is open to EVERYONE, not just gala attendees!
Bidding opens at noon on 10/15 and closes at 10:20 PM on 10/16.
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.
The auction site will go live in early October—check back soon! We’ll also send out an announcement via email when bidding opens, so if you're not already on our list, make sure to sign up and stay in the loop!
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.
Not Attending the Gala?
You Can Still Make an Impact
FUND THE MISSION
Even if you can’t join us in person, you can still be part of the celebration! A donation to our Fund the Mission helps provide essential resources and programs for children experiencing homelessness across Baltimore, Harford, and Cecil Counties. Every contribution brings us one step closer to brighter futures and reaching this year’s gala fundraising goal.
*see below for corporate sponsorships
Sponsorship Packages
We have several different sponsorship levels for individuals and businesses interested in supporting in a different way. questions? sponsorships@empower4lifemd.org
Donations
We kindly accept donations for auction or raffle items from businesses or individuals who are willing to donate. questions?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. questions? ashley@empower4lifemd.org
Frequently Asked Questions:
+ What will the parking situation be?
Parking is free and directly onsite at the venue. Address is: 5050 King Ave, Rosedale, MD 21237
+ What are the hours of the event?
7p – 11p
11p - Onwards: Check back for after party information!
+ What time does the program start?
The program portion of the event will start around 8p.
+ What is the attire?
Formal attire. Whether you choose a tuxedo or suit, an evening gown or cocktail dress, all that matters is that YOU feel fabulous!
+ 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.
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.
+ What is on the menu for the evening?
When purchasing your ticket, each guest will choose one entree from the following:
1) Crabcake & Beef Tenderloin with red wine demi glaze
2) Sea Bass Filet with asian slaw
3) Chicken Bruschetta with italian breading
4) GF Vegan Penne with vegetables in marinara
Any of these dishes can be gluten free if required. Be sure to make a note of these dietary restrictions upon selection.
+ 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 ticket purchasing process. Any of the dishes can be gluten free if required. If you need to update, please contact: info@empower4lifemd.org
+ Do you offer discounted or group transportation accommodations?
Yes, we have partnered with Thoroughbred Transportation who has offered discounted rates for our attendees. More information can be found here.
Gala Committee Members
This year's gala wouldn't be possible without the hard work and commitment of our amazing committee members!
Jennifer Cox, Executive Director
Jeff Alleman, Gala Chair
Alicia Woodward, Vice Chair
Zach Greaver, Dir. Corporate Sponsorships
Meredith Kilgore, Dir. of Marketing
Melissa Zimmerman, Dir. of Silent Auction
Genna Hoy, Dir. Fund the Mission
Derek Woodward, Dir. of Program
Cristine Maranville, Dir. of Logistics
KC Miller, Dir. of Decorations
Brice Dobry, Dir. of Technology
Ashley Fallon, Dir. of Volunteers
Many thanks to our 2025 sponsors!
Further gratitude goes out to our additional supporters:
Dan & Erin Sadler
Chuck & Carol Ferraro
Zach & Ashleigh Greaver
Patti Amato