On the evening of June 6, 2024, Friends of Guest House marked a significant milestone with the “Half a Century of Hope Gala,” celebrating 50 years of transformative work in the community. Hosted at ALX Community, the event was an elegant and heartfelt celebration filled with powerful stories, emotional moments, and joyous dancing.
The evening began with a warm welcome from our Executive Director, Sonja Allen, who set the tone for a night of reflection and celebration. Pastor Kate Costa from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church opened the program with a prayer, followed by Sonja’s heartfelt thanks to our board members, dedicated staff, volunteers, and generous sponsors. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in helping the women of Guest House rebuild their lives.
A special highlight of the evening was a moving musical performance by Amy Spence, a Guest House resident, who shared a song created through our DocSong project. This collaborative songwriting program beautifully captures the personal stories of our residents, fostering connection and empathy.
The awards ceremony, led by our Board Chairwoman, Deborah Minor, honored several key partners and individuals who have significantly contributed to our mission. Women Giving Back, the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church received the Community Partner Awards for their invaluable support of the Guest House mission.
Former Executive Director Kari Galloway presented the Legacy Award to board member Peter Lunt, celebrating his steadfast commitment to Guest House over the years. The emotional peak of the evening came as we celebrated our remarkable alumni with the Betty McConkey Awards. Starr Edwards, Chasidy Deskins, and Terry Garrett each shared their inspiring journeys, highlighting the impact Guest House has had on their lives.
In her closing remarks, Sonja emphasized the ongoing need for community support to continue our mission of providing second chances and transforming lives. The night concluded with joyous dancing, leaving everyone inspired and committed to the continued success of Friends of Guest House. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended and supported this unforgettable evening. Here’s to the next 50 years of hope and transformation!
Thank you for being a part of our journey. Let’s continue to make a difference together!
