The inaugural Legacy of Hope Brunch Soirée hosted by Dallas Hope Charities brought together donors, community partners, and advocates for an inspiring morning of storytelling, music, and impact — raising more than $39,000 to support LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing housing insecurity in Dallas.
Held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, the brunch marked the beginning of an annual celebration dedicated to building a legacy of hope through community generosity. Funds raised directly support Dallas Hope Charities’ mission to provide food, shelter, and services that instill dignity, stability, and hope.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Tamika Perry, CEO of Dallas Hope Charities, who reflected on the organization’s mission and expressed gratitude to supporters for helping make A Legacy of Hope a reality.
“Your presence alone shows your commitment to the critical work we do at Dallas Hope Charities.” — Tamika Perry, CEO
A Match That Multiplied Hope
The event’s Legacy Sponsor, Jason Reed, pledged a $10,000 donation match, inspiring attendees to double their impact in real time. The challenge was met in full thanks to a generous gift from the Buckenham Family and dozens of individual donors who gave from the heart during the event.
“My partner Mike and I would like to offer to match any donations today, dollar for dollar up to our goal of $10,000.” — Jason Reed, Board Treasurer & Legacy Sponsor
Stories That Inspire
Guests enjoyed a soulful performance by Ariana “Ari” Draper, meaningful event music provided by DJ 1Take TX, and a powerful live Q&A between Mark Segal, Stonewall pioneer and author, and Roscoe Compton Kelly, Board Chair of Dallas Hope Charities.
“We have one tool and one tool only, and it has carried us for 56 years, which is being visible.” — Mark Segal, Keynote Speaker
A Dallas Hope Center resident also addressed attendees, sharing the tangible impact of safe housing and community:
“You’re not focused on insecurity, you’re actually able to live life. You’re able to enjoy life. And it just goes from surviving to living. And I mean, that’s pretty much what Hope Center has meant to me.” — Previous Hope Center Resident
Sponsors That Made It Possible
- Legacy Sponsor: Jason Reed
- Friend Sponsors: Dallas Voice, Exeter Finance
- Parking Sponsor: DiamondFire Events
- Bar Sponsor: Lisa McCarthy Stewart
Auction and Donor Impact
The online auction added an extra layer of excitement to the morning. Beyond the fundraising total, the brunch brought together residents, donors, and volunteers—many of whom experienced firsthand how their support fuels programs like the Dallas Hope Center, an LGBTQIA+ transitional living program providing housing and life-skills education for young adults ages 18–24.
A Legacy That Continues
🗓 Save the Date: Legacy of Hope 2026 — Saturday, August 15, 2026. Join us as the legacy continues — details to come at www.DallasHopeCharities.org.
Source: press release
