A woman holds up a numbered paddle at an auction event while people around her sit at decorated tables, some clapping and watching attentively.

A night of hope

When a community comes together, families flourish. 

At the Night of a Million Dreams gala February 27, 2026, our community gave in extraordinary ways, raising $1,353,747 to help strengthen families and keep children safe. 

In the Grand Lawn Pavilion of The Ritz-Carlton, Tiburón, amid the theme’s Made to Flourish greenery, Better Together supporters gathered for an evening of giving, live and silent auctions, stories of hope, and Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos.

A man in a suit speaks at a podium next to a woman in a striped dress; a screen behind them displays "Night of a Million Dreams Gala."
George Wilson and Whitney Schadler

A transformational gift

One remarkable moment came when George Wilson and his daughter Whitney Schadler took the stage to announce an historic commitment from the Wilson & Johnson Private Foundation: $500,000 to establish an endowment dedicated to helping families grow and find long-term stability.

An endowment is more than a one-time gift. 

“An endowment means sustainability,” Whitney said. “It means stability. It means that when a desperate parent reaches out years from now, someone will answer them.”

Additional contributions to this endowment are already in progress, extending the impact of this visionary gift.

“Better Together proves that with the right support system, families can overcome crises,” George said. “Thank you for matching the commitment. Thank you for believing in this vision, and thank you for standing behind the work of Better Together.”

Four people sit on stage in formal attire, speaking into microphones at the "Night of a Million Dreams" gala event, with a decorative backdrop and musical instruments nearby.
Host family volunteer Pastor Luke Stockeland talks about caring for Jojo with his wife, Anne Stockeland, second from right, while Jojo’s mom, Bryanna, second from left, got back on her feet. At left, Better Together CEO Megan Rose leads the discussion.

Stories of hope

Guests heard directly from families served through our programs and volunteers who walk alongside our families and job seekers. With host family Luke and Anne Stockeland by her side on stage, Bryanna candidly shared how the Better Together community uplifted her spirit and her family.

🎥 Watch Bryanna’s story

Victor Carr, who connected with our jobs ministry at a Nationwide Days of Second Chances job fair, shared how he struggled to find work and nearly lost hope, while volunteer Job Coach Jennifer Caves spoke about walking alongside job seekers with encouragement and guidance.

Revisit the evening

From stories of flourishing to powerful moments of generosity, the night was filled with reminders that we are stronger together.

📸 View the photo gallery

Moments by Kinfay

Moments by Lion Star Photography

Because of you

Your generosity of time or treasure helps change the trajectory of generations.

  • Children remain safe with loving families.
  • Parents receive the support they need to thrive.
  • Children stay together with their families — not in foster care
  • Hope replaces isolation.

Most importantly, families who felt alone know they are surrounded by people who love them.

Thank you to every sponsor, volunteer, donor, and guest who made this evening possible. Your compassion is creating a future where children are safe, parents are empowered, and families can flourish.

Want to help more families flourish? 

Learn how to volunteer or support our mission through monthly donations:

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