A Night of Hope to Remember
Hand Up To Victory will host its 8th Annual Fall Gala, “Out of the Darkness and Into the Light,” on November 9th 2025 at 5:15p.m. at Oasis Church, 5215 Lorraine Road, Bradenton, FL.
This inspiring evening will bring together community members, recovery advocates, and supporters to celebrate lives transformed through recovery and to raise vital funds needed to continue to help individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.
The gala will feature live entertainment provided by singer/songwriter Melinda Drake, a catered dinner, powerful testimonials from individuals whose lives have been changed through support, and a silent auction you won’t soon forget, all benefiting Hand Up To Victory’s recovery support program. Manatee County Commissioner Jason Bearden will serve as this year’s special guest speaker, sharing his message of hope and transformation.
“Every person deserves a chance to rebuild their life,” said Justin Halas, Executive Director of Hand Up To Victory. “This event celebrates not just recovery—it celebrates courage, second chances, and the community that makes it all possible.”
Hand Up To Victory has helped more than 1,200 individuals in Manatee and Sarasota Counties since its founding in 2017, providing immediate access and temporary funding for recovery housing, along with food, hygiene items, employment resources, peer support, and weekly recovery meetings. The organization’s “Pathways to Living Sober” program gives individuals leaving treatment, incarceration, or homelessness a fresh start toward long-term recovery and independence.
There’s still time to attend—but seats are filling fast! Tickets are available by visiting
http://www.handuptovictory.org on the events page or by calling 941-782-9482
Hand Up To Victory is also accepting in-kind donations for themed auction baskets through October 17, 2025. Donations of gift cards, tickets, certificates, or new items are welcomed and will help raise funds to support individuals on their recovery journey.
Join us for a night of inspiration, community, and celebration as we help more people step out of the darkness and into the light.
About Hand Up To Victory
Hand Up To Victory is a nonprofit organization serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties, dedicated to helping individuals recovering from addiction rebuild their lives through recovery housing, wraparound essentials, peer support, and community connection.
