Youth and Family Advocacy Gala

On Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, join us at the iconic Indiana Roof Ballroom for the Youth & Family Advocacy Gala—a powerful evening dedicated to uplifting youth, honoring families, and sparking real change across Indianapolis.

This event, hosted by Founder and local advocate Ebony Ligon and proudly led by the Executive Director Dionne Smith, will spotlight the voices of young people directly affected by trauma, broken homes, and community violence. Our goal: to create a space of healing, connection, and collaboration between generations and communities.

Rafael Sánchez, renowned journalist and community champion, will serve as our evening’s host. The night will feature:

• Youth speakers sharing real-life stories and visions for a brighter future, with Tru Colors founder Brandon Randall.

• A silent art auction curated in partnership with GANGGANG, showcasing artwork inspired by personal memories, pain, healing, and resilience

• Opportunities to engage with local leaders, educators, families, and advocates committed to breaking cycles and building bridges. Hearing from keynote speaker, Ralph Durrett Jr., the Chief Violence Prevention Officer of Indianapolis.

This is more than a gala—it’s a movement toward cultural unity, mental wellness, and equity for our city’s youth and families. Proceeds support year-round advocacy programs, mental health services, and leadership development for young people in Indianapolis.

We invite the entire community—parents, educators, creatives, business leaders, and change-makers—to stand with us. Together, we are planting seeds of transformation.