Our Mission
The Hope Gala is committed to conquering childhood cancer by raising awareness, providing financial assistance, and supporting the fundraising efforts of Penn State Dance Marathon (THON), which benefits Four Diamonds, through our annual gala and year-round fundraising.
About Us
The Hope Gala is an annual gala and year-round fundraising organization established to support the fundraising efforts of Penn State Dance Marathon (THON). Since 2008, The Hope Gala has raised over $2.1 million towards the mission of conquering childhood cancer. Four Diamonds is the sole beneficiary of THON's fundraising activities and THON is the largest contributor to Four Diamonds. All proceeds benefit childhood cancer patients and their families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support at the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. The Hope Gala was founded by the New York City Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association with support from the Northern New Jersey Chapter.
Hope Gala Executive Committee
Co-Executive Director
Co-Executive Director
Development Advisor
Operations Advisor
Alumni Relations Director
Auction Director
Auction Director
Graphic Design Director
Communications Director
Communications Director
Communications Coordinator
Communications Coordinator
Family Relations Director
Gala Volunteer Coordinator
Gala Volunteer Coordinator
Partnerships Director
Public Relations Director
Public Relations Coordinator
Production Director
Special Events Director
Special Events Director
Special Events Coordinator
Special Events Coordinator
Sponsorship Director
Sponsorship Director
Sponsorship Coordinator
Sponsorship Coordinator
2024 Hope Gala
Together, we raised $267,264.16 in the fight against childhood cancer.
Thank you to our sponsors, donors, volunteers and special guests who helped make the night possible. Stay tuned for details on the 2025 Hope Gala in the coming months!
Join Our Team
Do you want to join our fight to conquer childhood cancer?
We’ve officially opened our application window for the 2024-2025 fundraising season and we are always looking for volunteers — from communications, to social media, to sponsorship, to special events, and more! Apply by July 21!
Join The Hope Gala in our mission of finding a cure through our year-long fundraising efforts and magical annual Hope Gala. Living in the New York area is not a requirement, but passion and dedication towards our cause are!
$2.3+ million
Since 2008, the Hope Gala has raised over $2.3 million towards the mission of conquering childhood cancer!
Our Beneficiary
Annual fundraising proceeds go directly to Four Diamonds. All proceeds benefit childhood cancer patients and families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support at the Penn State Children’s Hospital.
Volunteer-Run
The Hope Gala is 100% volunteer run. We are led by an Executive Committee of 16 Volunteer Directors, 10 Special Project Coordinators and an Advisory Board of 15 highly accomplished individuals spanning various industries in the tristate area.
Meet our Advisory Board
The Hope Gala would not be where it is today without the guidance, expertise and support of our talented Advisory Board.