Together, We Raised
$115,277.50
for Brighter Futures!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at our 12th Annual Bright Futures Gala. Your generosity helps us accompany our families in Haiti, Ghana, Taiwan, and beyond continue their journey out of poverty through good, dignified work.
Celebrating Hope, Progress, and Community
Sharing Haitian-inspired food, family success stories, and the energy of a community determined to see poverty end made this year’s gala truly special.
For many, this was their first WORK event and a glimpse into what our movement is all about: celebrating the power of dignified work and standing with families to tackle their toughest challenges, all while developing local leadership for families to thrive beyond our work.
Meet Our Emcee: Sony Ton-Aime
We were thrilled to welcome Sony Ton-Aime as our emcee this year. Sony is a Haitian poet, essayist, translator, and Executive Director of Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures. His forthcoming book Konbit (Carnegie Mellon University Press) and past works reflect the deep connections between culture, identity, and collective progress — themes that resonate deeply with WORK’s mission.
Thank You to Our 2025 Host Committee
A big thank-you to our event co-chairs, committee members, and everyone who helped make this year’s gala a success.
Event Co-Chairs: Suzanne & John Graf, Board Members
Host Committee Members:
Diana Bucco & Mark Chutko | Daren & Renee D'Ippolito | Christian & Amanda Gabarda
Kelsey Halling & Simon Huntley | Scott Kallick | Matt Katase & Alaina Webber
Ken & Linda Krynski | Kristen & Matt Mauclair | Sukanta & Vanessa Nag
Christina & R.J. Shanafelt | Sabrina Shaner | Bonnie Weibel & Dan Lampmann
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors
We’re grateful to our 2025 Bright Futures Sponsors for their long-term support. Together, we’re creating pathways out of poverty through dignified work and opportunity.
Event Vendors
The Farmers Daughter — Floral Design | Chancelor Humphrey- Photographer | Cammeretta 33- Live Music | Table Talk Linens- Linens | Entertainment Unlimited- Gaming | Galiffa Productions - A/V
Your Support Keeps the Momentum Going
The gala is one night, but its impact carries forward every single day. Families are earning a dignified income, children are attending school, and communities are taking steps toward stability.
If you weren’t able to join us, you can still be part of this movement.