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2027 Spark of Hope Gala April 2, 2027
A Spark of Hope is Coming...
Something exciting is on the horizon!
We're thrilled to offer a first look at the official Spark of Hope Gala logo as we begin planning for an unforgettable evening in support of youth and families affected by the foster care system.
Our signature fundraising event will bring our community together to celebrate resilience, inspire hope, and invest in brighter futures. Planning is already underway, and we'd love for you to be part of it!
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We're currently recruiting passionate volunteers to serve in committee leadership roles for our 2027 Gala. Whether you have experience in event planning, fundraising, marketing, or simply enjoy bringing people together, there's a place for you on our team. Committee leaders work alongside Fostering Connections staff, fellow volunteers, and our professional event planner to help create an unforgettable evening while expanding awareness and support for our mission.
Spark of Hope Gala 2027 Committee Leadership Opportunities
Help Create Hope. Inspire Change. Build Community.
The Spark of Hope Gala is Fostering Connections' signature annual fundraising event, bringing together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to invest in brighter futures for youth and families affected by the foster care system.
We're looking for passionate volunteers who want to use their talents, expand their networks, and make a meaningful difference. Whether you're an experienced event volunteer or looking for a new way to give back, we'd love to have you on our team.
Vice Chair (Chair-Elect) - Help Shape the Future of Our Signature Fundraising Event
Are you passionate about making a difference and looking for a meaningful leadership opportunity? Fostering Connections is seeking a Vice Chair for the 2027 Spark of Hope Gala. Working alongside our event planner, committee leaders, and staff, the Vice Chair will help guide the committee while learning every aspect of the gala with the opportunity to serve as a future Gala Chair.
Responsibilities
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Attend monthly committee meetings.
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Support committee leaders and help keep projects moving forward.
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Serve as an ambassador for Fostering Connections throughout the community.
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Assist with sponsor, donor, and volunteer engagement.
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Partner with staff and the event planner to help ensure a successful event.
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Grow into future Gala Chair leadership.
Ideal Candidate
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Strong organizational and leadership skills.
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Passion for community impact.
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Relationship builder who enjoys working with others.
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Able to commit approximately 3–5 hours per month, with additional time leading up to the event.
Tickets & Tables Chair - Create a Welcoming Experience While Growing Community Support
The Tickets & Tables Chair helps ensure every seat is filled with people who believe in our mission. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys connecting with others and helping build meaningful relationships throughout the community.
Responsibilities
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Recruit table hosts and encourage ticket sales.
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Follow up with guests and table captains.
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Track ticket sales with staff.
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Assist with seating requests and guest communication.
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Help create a welcoming experience before and during the event.
Ideal Candidate
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Friendly and outgoing.
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Enjoys networking and relationship building.
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Organized and detail-oriented.
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Comfortable encouraging others to attend and invite friends.
Volunteer Coordinator - Help Make the Gala Possible
Our volunteers are the heart of the Spark of Hope Gala. The Volunteer Coordinator recruits, organizes, and supports the incredible individuals who make the evening run smoothly.
Responsibilities
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Recruit event-day volunteers.
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Coordinate volunteer assignments and schedules.
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Communicate expectations before the event.
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Lead volunteer orientation.
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Serve as the primary contact for volunteers during the gala.
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Recognize and thank volunteers after the event.
Ideal Candidate
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Enjoys working with people.
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Strong organizational and communication skills.
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Positive, encouraging leader.
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Passionate about community service.
Join the Spark
Whether you have a few hours each month or are looking for a meaningful leadership opportunity, your talents can help create brighter futures for youth and families impacted by the foster care system. Committee members receive support from Fostering Connections staff and our professional event planner, allowing volunteers to focus on building relationships, engaging the community, and creating an unforgettable experience.
Interested in joining the Spark of Hope Gala Committee? We'd love to connect with you! To learn more or express your interest, contact Aubrie Simpson-Gotham at fosteringconnectionsfl@gmail.com or complete our Gala Committee Interest Form. Together, we can create an evening that inspires hope, strengthens our community, and changes lives.
Become a Spark of Hope Gala Sponsor!
Our 2027 Spark of Hope Gala sponsorship opportunities are now available!
Join businesses, organizations, and community leaders from across Northeast Florida in helping bring the Spark to life. Your sponsorship helps Fostering Connections create opportunities, resources, and meaningful connections for youth and families affected by the foster care system.
Explore our 2027 Sponsorship Packet to learn more about sponsorship levels, benefits, and opportunities to partner with us for this unforgettable evening.
DOWNLOAD THE 2027 SPONSORSHIP PACKET
Interested in becoming a sponsor or discussing which opportunity is the best fit? Contact our Sponsorship Chair, Mary-Mac Chown at mchown@tcbga.bank.
Ticket sales and additional event details will be announced soon, so be sure to check back for updates.
We can't wait to share what's ahead—and together, create a Spark of Hope that changes lives.
Programs Supported by this Event:
• Career Readiness Academy – job skills and networking for teens
• Florida Youth SHINE – Jacksonville Chapter – youth leadership and advocacy
• Family Empowerment Nights – connection and support for families
• Enrichment Scholarships – access to opportunities beyond the classroom
• Teen Talks – peer-led discussions to build confidence and resilience.
Impact Stats

growth in Career Readiness Academy since 2020

students annually enrolled in Career Readiness Academy since 2024

teens annually served through Teen Talks

families annually supported at Family Empowerment Nights

youth impacted in 2024 across all programs

elected to Florida Youth SHINE statewide board
"Through hands-on activities and real-world guidance, my sister gained confidence, built friendships, and discovered she is capable of so much more than she believed. This program has changed her life.” – Kinship Caregiver
2027 Spark of Hope Auction Donation
Fostering Connections invites you to support our Spark of Hope Gala by donating an item or experience for our silent auction. The gala will take place on Friday, April 2, 2027, at Deerwood Country Club in Jacksonville.
Our mission is to help youth and families affected by foster care through the opportunities, tools, and resources they need to thrive. We serve youth and families impacted by the foster care system throughout Northeast Florida, with programs focused on career and college readiness, life skills, family empowerment, and youth leadership.
We would be grateful for a gift card, merchandise, service, experience, or auction package from your business. Your donation will help raise funds for these programs while introducing gala guests to your business. We would be pleased to recognize your business in our auction materials.
If you would like to donate, please contact Lisa Pacella, Auction Chair, at lisa.pacella@conferencedirect.com, or submit your donation through our Auction Link below. Our team can arrange pickup at a convenient time and provide a written acknowledgment for your records. Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Thank you for considering a gift to the Spark of Hope Gala. Your generosity will help youth and families across Northeast Florida access opportunities, build connections, and thrive.

















