Hope Rising Gala 2026:
Celebrating Community Resilience
The Hope Rising Gala is an evening dedicated to honoring the strength, leadership, and resilience of San Mateo County’s communities. On Friday, September 18, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, we gather in the newly opened Redwood Hall at the San Mateo County Event Center to celebrate our shared commitment to building a county where every person is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Evening Program
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Check‑In & Cocktail Hour
Guests will enjoy a welcoming reception featuring light refreshments and an opportunity to connect with local community‑based organizations doing powerful, often unseen work with underserved communities across San Mateo County. These partners will host tables during the cocktail hour so attendees can learn about their missions, programs, and impact.
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Dinner & Formal Program
Our formal program begins with dinner and a celebration of the collective efforts that keep our communities strong. The evening will feature a keynote address from Shireen Malekafzali, sharing insights from the County Shared Prosperity Coordinating Council and the countywide work to advance equity, stability, and shared prosperity.
Why We Gather
Hope Rising brings our community together to grow something lasting — safe, secure, and inclusive communities where all feel empowered to thrive. This gala supports the Rooted Together Fund and the Faith in Action San Mateo County Family Fund, two community‑led initiatives that build stability, leadership, and shared power across San Mateo County.
Your participation helps families stay Rooted Together, strengthens local leadership, and fuels the resilience that defines our community.
Join Us
Celebrate with us, learn with us, and invest in a future where every member of our community is seen, valued, and supported. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities ensure your seat, keep you updated on event plans, and connect you directly with the impact your generosity makes on the ground.