An Evening of Hope: Celebrating 26 Years of Impact
The Casey Cares 26th Annual Sea of Hope Gala was an unforgettable evening celebrating our journey and raising over $260,000 to support the life-changing programs and activities we provide to critically ill children and their families!
With more than 300 guests filling the American Visionary Art Museum, the evening began with a sparkling cocktail hour featuring delicious cuisine, refreshing beverages, and a stunning turquoise shimmer backdrop where guests posed with a live “mermaid.” The ambiance was beautifully set with live jazz music that captivated attendees from the very first note.
Emceed by Weather Channel meteorologist and longtime Casey Cares supporter Lynette Charles, alongside WBAL’s Angelette Aviles, the evening was vibrant and inspiring. Guests enthusiastically participated in exciting live and silent auctions before dancing the night away in celebration.
During the program, Casey Cares Founder and Executive Director Casey Baynes presented the annual Champion of Children Award to Julia Arfaa of Arfaa Law Group, recognizing her unwavering dedication, generosity, and steadfast support of Casey Cares’ mission. We are deeply grateful for her commitment and the profound impact she continues to make in the lives of thousands of critically ill children and their families.
A moving video, generously sponsored by the Bostwick Family, featured Casey Cares families and highlighted the meaningful, ongoing support made possible through our dedicated donors and sponsors. Casey Cares parents in attendance were invited to stand and be recognized, creating a powerful and heartfelt moment. You can watch the video here.
A huge thank you to our generous Diamond Sponsor: Foundation Housing
Platinum Sponsors: Arco Management Corp/MMS Group, Arfaa Law Group, CohnReznick, Salsbury Stringer McCulley, The Bostwick Family, Weltchek Mallahan and Weltchek
Gold Sponsors: DiMayo Family Foundation, EagleBank, Henry A. Strohminger Family Foundation Inc., iHeartmedia, IP Datasystems, Inc., Johns Hopkins University & Medicine, M&T Bank, Marbaugh Family Endowment Fund
Silver Sponsors: Lifebridge Health, Merritt Properties, Sons of The American Legion, The Capodanno Family
Bronze Sponsors: Fire Commissioner Kevin B. and Mrs. Rachel R. O’Connor, Goodman-Gable-Gould, Adjusters International, Hargadon Family, Reno & Cavanaugh, Team Watience, Vallit
We also extend our sincere appreciation to our incredible media and in-kind sponsors: BridgeTower Media/The Daily Record, CityPeek, Clear Channel Outdoor, DowntownDiane.net, HeidnSeek Entertainment, WBAL TV/Radio, Atlantic Caterers, Black Oak Visuals, Electric Events DC, JEDCo Brands, Inc., Tom Reyes & Friends, Triangle Sign Services, White Clover Floral Events.
Special thanks to Peter Watts of The Five Arrows Photography for beautifully capturing the magic of the evening. View the photos below.
Over the past quarter-century, Casey Cares has delivered an astounding 336,947 activities to 618,952 program participants. Thanks to your generous contributions and steadfast support, we continue to adapt to the evolving needs of our growing number of families, offering meaningful activities designed to bring smiles during life’s most challenging moments.
If you were unable to attend the gala but would still like to make an impact, we warmly invite you to consider making a donation today.
Check out the whole photo album HERE.
