St. Vincent de Paul hosts 'Night of Hope' gala to mark 95th anniversary.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio District Council held a 'Night of Hope' gala on Feb. 14 at the Grand Resort in Howland to celebrate its 95th anniversary and raise funds through silent auctions and donations.

After a long stretch of frigid weather, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Northeast Ohio District Council held a gala on Feb. 14 at the Grand Resort in Howland. The event was presented as the inaugural gala of the group's 95th anniversary and combined celebration with fundraising. Organizers described the evening as an opportunity to thank volunteers, donors and partner agencies. The program included a band, a meal, a video presentation and auction activities. Event details: - The gala took place Feb. 14 at the Grand Resort in Howland and was called "Night of Hope." - Fundraising elements included 59 silent auction items and three golden-ticket chances for trips, plus a video highlighting 95 years of the society's work. - Darlene S. Jones, chief executive officer, said the winter and recent social pressures have increased community need and that the gala aimed to strengthen supporter relationships. - The Rev. Christopher Cicero gave a blessing before the meal and board president Susan Franko spoke about the group's local history. - Volunteers included John F. Kennedy School students Katie Andre and Kaelyn Fletcher, and longtime kitchen volunteer Kathlene Anerino; Trumbull Community Action Program CEO Van Nelson attended as a partner. - The society's origins were noted: founded in Paris in 1833, with the first U.S. conference in St. Louis in 1845 and early local activity in the 1920s and 1930s. Summary: The gala served as both a celebration of 95 years of local service and a way to recognize supporters while raising funds for programs. Organizers said needs in the area have grown due to the pandemic, inflation and limited shelter availability. Undetermined at this time.