A Toast Gala, Shatters Goal, Raises $462K+
Record-Breaking Night for St. Louis Families!
Because of your generosity, FFSC’s 2026 A Toast to Fathers Gala—marking 28 years of impact—was an absolute triumph! We didn’t just meet our goals this year; we shattered them. Thanks to you, we blew past our $350,000 target, instantly unlocking a massive $50,000 anonymous challenge grant!
Led by the tireless efforts of Gala Chair Jim Nardulli, the evening raised a spectacular, record-breaking $462K+!
Highlights from an Unforgettable Evening
The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis was packed with over 370 guests – a record – all rallying behind a shared mission. The energy in the room was electric, kept lively and moving all night by our fantastic MC, KMOV-4 and The Matrix Sportscaster Randy Karraker. Here are a few moments that made the night so special:
Fund-A-Need Firepower: Gala Committee and Board Member Jennifer Belmont Jennings brought down the house, rallying the crowd to raise over $75K in minutes during the Fund-A-Need auction!
The Heart of Our Mission: There wasn’t a dry eye in the room during our Father of The Year Award. Antonio Davis shared his powerful journey of resilience, proving what’s possible when a father stays the course, utilizes FFSC’s programs, and fights to unite his family.
Celebrating Leadership & Impact: The prestigious Doris Stoehner Founding President’s Award was presented to long-time supporter and Board Member Kathleen Zorica for her endless generosity and dedication. Our incredible community partner, Light A Single Candle, accepted the Community Champion Award for their vital role in fueling FFSC’s employment program for parents.
The outpouring of love from the St. Louis community is nothing short of inspiring. Your support directly ensures that we can carry on our late Founder Halbert Sullivan’s profound legacy. To date, FFSC has supported nearly 23,000 fathers on their journey to responsible parenthood, forever changing the trajectories of over 57,000 sons and daughters.
Because you showed up, more children will grow up with the emotional and financial support of a loving father. Together, we aren’t just changing individual lives—we are transforming the entire landscape of our communities.
Thank you for standing with St. Louis families!
