6th Annual Somewhere Over The Rainbow Gala

Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, inspiration, entertainment, and impact at the 6th Annual “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” Gala — a signature celebration honoring the educators, mentors, advocates, and changemakers shaping the future of children and families across Hampton Roads.

For more than 15 years, Mile High Kids & Community Development has remained committed to empowering children and strengthening families through education, mentorship, mental health support, and community engagement.

This year’s gala brings together philanthropists, educators, elected officials, business leaders, advocates, and community supporters for a powerful night dedicated to possibility, purpose, and progress.

This year’s theme reflects a truth we know deeply:

Even in the face of adversity, educators are the bridge between where a child begins and where they are destined to go.

Whether through leadership, advocacy, mentorship, or unwavering commitment to students and families, the individuals we honor continue to transform lives, strengthen communities, and create pathways where none existed before.

Inspired by the belief that there is always hope beyond the storm, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” serves as a reminder that every child deserves access to opportunity, support, healing, and a brighter future.

This year, we proudly honor outstanding leaders in:

• Early Childhood & K–12 Education
• Youth Development & Mentorship
• Family & Community Engagement
• Educational Advocacy & Systems Change

• Dr. Joseph Knight
• Dr. Peggy Britt
• Vanessa Hinton
• Lindell Wallace
• Regina Southall
• Dr. Rosalyn Sanderlin
• Dr. Marie Shepherd
• Dr. Ella Ward
• Deborah Zearfoss Davis

✨ Live Performance by Grammy-Nominated R&B Artist Kenny Lattimore✨ Live Entertainment & DJ✨ Elegant Red Carpet Experience✨ Curated Fine Dining Experience✨ Signature Cocktails & Specialty Beverage Bar✨ Non-Alcoholic Tea & Juice Bar✨ Interactive Photo Booth✨ Exclusive Silent Auction✨ Premier Networking with Community Leaders & Changemakers✨ VIP Pre-Gala Happy Hour✨ VIP Celebrity Meet & Greet✨ VIP After Party Experience

Step into a night of color, creativity, and elevated glamour inspired by the magic of possibility beyond the rainbow.

Guests are encouraged to embrace Whimsical Elegance — a sophisticated yet playful style featuring vibrant colors, bold textures, dreamy fabrics, artistic fashion, and statement accessories. Think modern gala glamour with touches of imagination, sparkle, softness, and individuality.

Whether you choose flowing gowns, colorful tuxedos, floral details, shimmering accents, feathers, metallics, or fashion-forward formalwear, this is your moment to express joy, hope, and creativity through style.

Suggested Inspiration:✨ Jewel tones & iridescent colors✨ Ethereal fabrics & dramatic silhouettes✨ Creative black-tie fashion✨ Elegant sparkle, florals, or whimsical details✨ Sophisticated looks with personality and flair

Come dressed to celebrate possibility, beauty, and impact — because somewhere over the rainbow, magic happens. 🌈

All proceeds from the evening directly support the mission and programs of Mile High Kids & Community Development, including:

• Mentorship & Youth Development Programs
• Educational Scholarships
• Mental Health & Wellness Services
• Family Support Resources
• Community Outreach & Enrichment Initiatives

Together, we are investing in the future of children and families throughout Virginia by ensuring access to the support, resources, and opportunities they deserve.

More than a gala, this is a night of recognition, storytelling, celebration, and collective commitment to building stronger futures — because every child deserves a chance to thrive.

We invite you to join us for an extraordinary evening where elegance meets impact and possibility shines brighter than ever before.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Delta Hotels Chesapeake Norfolk, 725 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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