This year’s Gala is more than a celebration — it’s a milestone.
Our Sisters’ House has spent the past 30 years standing in the gap for Black women, girls, and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence, and generational trauma. From humble beginnings in 1995 as a transitional home for Black girls in the juvenile justice system, we’ve grown into the only Black-led, culturally specific victim services agency in Pierce County.

Over the decades, we’ve walked alongside thousands of survivors, created life-changing youth programs, and worked tirelessly to break cycles of violence. We’ve done all this without ever owning a true, permanent home — adapting and renting spaces to keep our doors open.

This year, that can finally change.
In 2023, we were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase the entire third floor of the Passages Building in downtown Tacoma, where our offices currently reside. This purchase will mean more space for programs, a welcoming lobby for survivors, a wellness room for healing, and the financial stability that comes from owning instead of renting. But to make it happen, we must raise $250,000 for the down payment by December 31, 2025.

Our Second Annual Gala will bring together community members, partners, and advocates to celebrate three decades of impact while raising the critical funds needed to secure our forever home. Your attendance, sponsorship, and support will help us not only continue our life-saving work, but also build a future where Black women and girls have a safe space that will always be theirs.

Join us in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and investing in the next 30 years of safety, healing, and empowerment.

About Our Guest Speaker: Jahmad Canley

We are honored to welcome Jahmad Canley, President and CEO of Potential Unleashed, as our 2025 Gala Guest Speaker. Jahmad is an internationally recognized keynote speaker and consultant known for helping organizations transform culture and unlock human potential. For nearly two decades, he has partnered with leading companies and institutions—including Microsoft, Amazon, Western Union, the LA Philharmonic, and USA Swimming—to build inclusive, equity-driven environments that inspire belonging and performance.

With expertise in cognitive science and organizational culture, Jahmad blends research with real-world application to create transformative, measurable change. His authenticity, humor, and passion for people allow him to connect with audiences across industries—from corporate executives to educators and nonprofit leaders.

Beyond his global work across North America, Africa, Asia, and Central America, Jahmad is also the founder of Tacoma Gents, a youth leadership program equipping boys of color with essential life skills and mentorship. A proud Tacoma native, devoted husband, and father, Jahmad embodies the spirit of leadership, empowerment, and community transformation that Our Sisters’ House stands for.

Our Sisters' House Second Annual Gala Fundraiser