A generous spirit filled the air on June 13 as more than 130 guests gathered to celebrate and support ECH’s work for children and families at the Hope Rising Gala. Attendees mingled at the Ameristar Casino in St. Charles before being welcomed into the ballroom by KMOV News Anchor Maurice Drummond for the evening’s presentation.
“It’s been over a decade since we hosted a formal event like this, and it felt wonderful to see so many of our friends in one place,” said CEO Julia Adami.
The evening included the first-ever presentation of the Lifetime of Hope Award to Dennis Mertz, who has supported ECH for over 50 years. There was also a presentation of the Rising Star Awards, which recognizes staff who have gone above and beyond in their roles. Recipients included Liz Leroy, Franita Staten, Monica Harmon, and Jermaine Cotton.
Thank you to sponsors The Smith-Fain Family Foundation, Window World, Up Companies, & SACPA Accounting Firm, who helped make the evening a success.
Click here to watch our gala video: