When Jim and I were invited to attend Angels of Hope’s Night of Hope as guests of Hidden Lake neighbor and board member Audrey Hoener, we knew it would be a meaningful evening. What we experienced was something far beyond that.

We were truly blown away.

More than 850 guests gathered this past March at Palazzo Grande for one of the most impactful fundraising events in our region. From the moment we walked in, it was clear this evening was something special. Every detail was thoughtfully executed. The decor. The entertainment. The prizes. The seamless flow of the night. And the incredible food and desserts.

As someone who plans events and gatherings within our own community, I found myself deeply inspired.

At its core, Angels of Hope exists for one powerful reason. To ensure no Michigan family faces cancer alone. Through direct financial assistance, they help cover essential expenses like rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation so families can focus on healing instead of financial stress.

It was also incredibly special to see familiar faces in the room, including longtime Hidden Lake neighbor Karin Laurin, there in support of this meaningful cause.

Because the truth is, cancer touches all of us.

Two of my own grandparents passed away from cancer. And I would imagine that everyone reading this knows someone who has been affected. That is what made the evening’s stories so incredibly moving. Hearing firsthand the impact Angels of Hope has on families navigating unimaginable circumstances was something I will never forget.

One of the most powerful moments came during the Fallen Angels Tribute. Rachel, a young mother diagnosed with breast cancer at just 35, shared her story. During treatment, Angels of Hope stepped in to cover everyday expenses, allowing her to focus on her family and her healing. What followed was unforgettable. Her operatic performance of “Hallelujah” filled the room. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

The evening continued with an incredible lineup of experiences. Luxury raffles featuring a Rolex Submariner, a Tacori eternity band, and a Louis Vuitton Carryall. A lively wine pull. A competitive silent auction. And a live auction offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a private dinner hosted by Jay Towers.

I also loved discovering that Jay Towers was the emcee. He has been part of this event for many years and is also a significant donor. I remember listening to his radio show first thing every morning during high school, so seeing him there in this role added another layer of connection for me.

One of the most impactful moments came during the paddle raise. As the room rallied together, a generous guest offered a $25,000 match at the $500 giving level. More than 30 paddles were raised, directly supporting families with essential needs like groceries during treatment.

The night closed with live music from 50 Amp Fuse, bringing everyone to their feet in celebration of what had been accomplished together.

By the end of the evening, a record-breaking $819,417 had been raised. And perhaps even more remarkable, Angels of Hope is entirely volunteer-run, meaning nearly every dollar goes directly to supporting families in need.

We left feeling deeply moved and inspired.

Next year, I would love to see a table dedicated to Hidden Lake neighbors and our STROLL business partners. Coming together not just to attend, but to actively support this incredible mission.

In the meantime, there is another opportunity to get involved.

Angels of Hope will host their Golf for Hope outing on August 21, 2026 at Boulder Pointe Golf Club.

To learn more, visit AngelsOfHope.org or email support@angelsofhope.org.

Because no family should face cancer alone.