6th Annual Somewhere Over The Rainbow Gala

The 6th Annual "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" Gala Presented by Mile High Kids & Community Development

Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, inspiration, entertainment, and impact — 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 empowered children and strengthened 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.

2026 Theme: "Possibility Because"

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, this year's honorees 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" is a reminder that every child deserves access to opportunity, support, healing, and a brighter future.

2026 Honorees

This year, we proudly honor outstanding leaders in Early Childhood & K–12 Education, Youth Development & Mentorship, Family & Community Engagement, and Educational Advocacy & Systems Change:

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

The Gala Experience

• 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 after-party experience

General admission includes:

• Supporting children and families of Mile High Kids & Community Development, Inc.
• Fine Dining
• Live Entertainment & DJ
• Silent auction
• Red Carpet
• Photo Booth
• Premier Networking w/ Passionate Changemakers
• Gala After Party

VIP admission includes:

• Supporting children and families of Mile High Kids & Community Development, Inc.
• Dedicated VIP Entrance
• VIP Pre-Gala Happy Hour
• Open Bar
• Premium Seating & Table Arrangements
• Fine Dining
• Live Entertainment & DJ
• Early Access to Silent auction
• Access to Premium online gallery of photos
• Photo Booth
• Premier Networking w/ Passionate Changemakers
• Gala After Party

Dress Code: Whimsical Elegance ✨🌈

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, and sophisticated looks with personality and flair.

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

Why Your Support Matters

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.