Philly Connect's® 2026 Fundraising Gala: Plus 1: One More, On Purpose is rooted in a simple but powerful truth: one person can change everything. Because growth happens one person, one connection or one invitation at a time.

At the heart of this year's theme is the belief that no one was meant to do life alone. Every person in the room is there because someone made room for one more. Someone extended an invitation, opened a door, offered encouragement, or simply said, “come with me.” We’ve all had a Plus 1, and at some point, we’ve all been one too.

What started as a small Bible study has grown into a thriving community helping young adults find clarity, belonging, spiritual growth, healing, and meaningful connection. Over the years, Philly Connect® has become more than a weekly gathering, it has become a place where people feel seen, supported, challenged and reminded they don’t have to navigate life alone. And almost every story started the same way: someone invited someone else.

This gala celebrates the people who helped make that possible, the leaders, volunteers, mentors, donors, partners, and community builders who gave their time, opened doors, carried the vision, and helped create space for transformation.

As we step into the next chapter, our 2026 Fundraising Gala will help fuel the future of Philly Connect® through securing a permanent home, expanding leadership and mentorship programming, strengthening infrastructure, investing in the next generation and increasing our ability to serve more people with intention and excellence.

Because there are still more people waiting for someone to say, “come with me.” One more invitation can shift a life. One more conversation can unlock purpose. And the beautiful thing is, what starts with one never stays there.

Thank you for choosing to be part of our story and for helping us make room for one more.

For more information on Philly Connect® and to become a member of our community, please visit https://www.phillyconnect.org/

Philly Connect® 2026 Fundraising Gala

Plus 1: One More, On Purpose

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Team Members