A Day of Connection, Celebration and Hope

What a day it was!

On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the Good Shepherd Gracenter community came together at Dominic’s SF For an Afternoon filled with grace, laughter and generosity. From the first welcoming smiles to the final notes of applause, the Be a Bridge to Recovery Gala truly lived up to its name – bridging hearts across our community in support of women rebuilding their lives in recovery.

Beautiful surroundings, uplifting music, and heartfelt conversations filled the room as guests enjoyed delicious food, an exciting silent and live auction, lively Raise the Paddle segments, an exciting raffle, and powerful stories of recognition for our award recipients. Many described the event as “elegant, classy, and deeply meaningful”.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, donors, and guests, we exceeded expectations, raising vital funds to help women continue their journey toward independence, dignity, and purpose.

A Message of Strength and Gratitude

Remarks from our Board President, Tayo Akanni

As part of the program, our Board President, Tayo Akanni, delivered the following encouraging and heartfelt speech that perfectly captured the spirit of the day. His words reminded us that, just like the bridges that define our Bay Area, Good Shepherd Gracenter stands strong because of the many hands and hearts that support it.

It is such an honor to stand before you, at this year’s gala. We have all gathered in this room for a shared purpose: to be a bridge to recovery.

A bridge is more than just a structure. It connects what once felt divided. It spans over difficult terrain and carries people from one place to another—often from fear to hope, from despair to possibility. That is exactly what recovery is, and that is exactly what this organization does.

With your support, we create pathways to healing and second chances.

Recovery is not a straight line, and sometimes bridges need reinforcement along the way. That is why days like these matter. They remind us that when we stand together, recovery becomes not just an individual journey, but a community promise.

So, let’s recommit ourselves—to lifting people up, to walking with them, and to ensuring that the bridge we build is strong enough, wide enough, and welcoming enough for everyone who needs it.

Thank you for being part of this mission, thank you for being part of this bridge, and thank you for choosing hope with us today.