The 2024 Illuminate Hope Gala: A Night of Support, Celebration, and Community
2024 Illuminate HOPE Gala Breast Cancer Survivors Attendees.
The 2024 Illuminate Hope Gala was an incredible evening of support, celebration, and shared purpose, as B the Light welcomed breast cancer survivors and their caregivers alongside hundreds of community members, all united by a mission to uplift, inspire, and offer hope.
A Warm Welcome and a Night of Glamour
Over 360 guests were greeted with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for a night filled with pink carpets, beautiful décor, and connection. The evening featured a delicious meal prepared by Gutes Essen. This year, thanks to the generosity of two private donors who contributed a $10,000 executive sponsorship, 40 survivors received complimentary seats along with their guests, adding even more meaning to the celebration.
To create that “pink carpet” experience, three professional photographers captured the evening’s highlights, from the glamorous moments to the heartfelt exchanges.
Guests can view and download these memories by clicking the links below.
Cody Allen Photography
Syndol Mae Photography
JMH Photography
The ‘glam booth’ was back this year, providing an opportunity for guests to snap fun, playful photos with family and friends. You’ll find all the fun photos here at Gray Duck Glam Booth! Up All Night Entertainment kept the atmosphere lively and the dance floor filled.
Auction Excitement and Mission-Driven Stories
The silent auction was a major hit, offering over 115 unique items to bid on. The live auction, hosted by the talented Matt Mages, featured seven high-value items, from a Fall Harvest Dinner party to a memorable trip for two to Belize.
Throughout the evening, guests were moved by mission-focused videos featuring two young survivors, who courageously shared their journeys.
Jen Ulman, alongside her husband Matt and son Jamis, spoke about how B the Light provided critical support during her treatment. “B the Light taught me that it is okay to not be okay,” Jen reflected, highlighting the emotional support she received through the organization.
Another survivor, Kate Hansen, shared her story with her daughter Rylie, expressing how joining B the Light’s programs was a turning point in her mental and emotional healing journey.
A Year of Hope and Surprises
Returning to the gala this year was J&R Schugel’s B the Light-wrapped truck, parked outside as a proud symbol of awareness and encouragement. This truck, driven by a breast cancer survivor named Robin, traveled across the lower 48 states over the past year, spreading the message “Never give up HOPE!” Robin shared powerful stories from the road, recounting the impact her journey had on countless lives and communities.
Once again, survivors were invited to apply for the Hope Getaway program, which provides an opportunity for one recipient to embark on a healing journey to the destination of their choice. Prior to announcing this year’s recipient we heard from the mother-daughter team that were the recipient of last year’s Hope Getaway.
This year’s recipient, chosen by B the Light’s Board of Directors, was a young mother who is currently in the fight against breast cancer.
Aunt B’s family, for whom B the Light was named, delighted the audience by sponsoring another Hope Getaway to Belize for a lucky survivor.
The generosity continued as Tim and Kristi Loose, owners of St. George’s Caye and New Ulm locals, donated yet another Belize getaway, sharing in the spirit of giving that was felt throughout the night.
Making an Impact
This year’s Illuminate Hope Gala raised approximately $124,000, funds that will directly benefit local breast cancer survivors in Southern Minnesota through B the Light’s six signature programs, including Hope Handbags, Hope Getaway, Cooking Beyond Cancer, Hope Huddles, ReLight Retreats, and Survival Fitness. Each dollar raised will help B the Light continue to provide life-changing support and services to survivors and their families.
Reflecting on the evening, B the Light’s founder, Amber Melby, shared, “The Illuminate Hope gala was a powerful reminder of breast cancer survivors' strength and resilience and the incredible community supporting them. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, we’ve raised vital funds to continue providing resources, programs, and hope to those affected by breast cancer. Every dollar raised will help us empower survivors and make a lasting difference in their journeys. I appreciate your support of this special mission!”
Lastly, a huge thank you to our incredible gala chair and committee, whose hard work behind the scenes made this night possible! Jess Osborne, our dedicated chair for both 2023 and 2024, has been instrumental in securing sponsors, gathering an exciting array of silent auction items, and curating some of the most unique and fun live auction experiences. We also want to recognize Lea Kleinschmidt and AJ Oachs for their commitment as committee members and for their outstanding efforts in procuring beautiful silent auction items. We simply couldn’t do it without them—thank you!
Save the Date for 2025
Mark your calendar for next year’s Illuminate Hope Gala, which will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025. Visit www.bthelightinfo.org for more information about B the Light and ways to get involved.
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Amber Melby (Survivor, Founder & President) & Laura Doyen (Executive Director)
