Your Guide to the 2026 Charity Gala Weekend
The countdown is on for one of our favorite weekends of the year!
The 35th Annual Charity Gala returns Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center for an evening celebrating generosity, community impact, and the people who make West Tennessee a better place to call home.
Cocktail hour begins at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. We have an unforgettable evening planned - keep reading for all the details for this year’s event.
“The Charity Gala is a celebration, but its impact extends far beyond one weekend. Every reservation, sponsorship and gift helps us invest in organizations doing important work across West Tennessee. We are grateful for the generosity of our community and excited to celebrate 35 years of making an impact together.”
The Community Foundation of West Tennessee awarded $100,000 in Community Impact Grants to 12 organizations during a celebration on June 23, 2026.
More Than a Night Out
For more than three decades, the Charity Gala has brought our community together for a great cause. While the evening is filled with dinner, entertainment, and celebration, what happens because of the Charity Gala lasts long after the night ends.
Proceeds support the Community Impact Fund, helping us provide grants to nonprofits responding to some of the most important needs across West Tennessee.
This year alone, we awarded $100,000 in Community Impact Grants to 12 organizations working in areas including food insecurity, workforce development, youth substance abuse prevention, transportation, support for veterans and caregivers, and services for individuals with disabilities.
When you attend the Charity Gala, you become a part of that impact.
Celebrating People Who Make a Difference
One of the most meaningful traditions of the Charity Gala is recognizing individuals and families whose leadership and service have made an extraordinary impact.
Dr. Cary Fowler, a Tennessee native and internationally recognized leader in food security and agricultural biodiversity, will receive the Tigrett Award. The May & Dr. A. Barnett Scott Service Award will be presented to the Ryder Lewis Family in recognition of their commitment to serving children and families through the Ryder Lewis Memorial Fund.
Five community leaders will also be recognized with the Jackson Awards, which honor individuals who exemplify leadership and service in Jackson-Madison County:
Arts: Brandon Kelly
Education: Dr. Vivian Cawthon-Williams
Healthcare: Dr. Jackie L. Taylor
Leadership: Bob Arrington
Volunteer Service: Ricky Long
Each honoree has a unique story, but they share something important: a commitment to using their leadership, talents, and service to make a difference.
“This year’s award recipients represent what it means to serve others and invest in the future of our community. Their contributions span arts, education, healthcare, volunteer service, and much more, but they share a common commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. We look forward to celebrating each of them at the Charity Gala this fall.”
Get Ready to Dance
After dinner and the awards, it’s time to hit the dance floor! 46 Story is returning to provide live entertainment and keep the celebration going.
46 Story is a Nashville-based creative cover band performing a diverse setlist with energy and grace. They have been a frequent weekend headliner for over two years at the iconic 12/30 Super Club on Broadway.
The Weekend Begins at Oakmont Estate
This year marks the return of a two-night Charity Gala weekend.
On Friday, November 13, sponsors and award recipients will gather at Oakmont Estate for the Patrons’ Party. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., guests will enjoy a cocktail reception featuring a complimentary bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and the opportunity to kick off the Charity Gala weekend in a beautiful, intimate setting.
Tickets for the Patrons’ Party are available for $150 per person. You can purchase tickets online or by mail to the Community Foundation at 74 Directors Row, Jackson, TN 38305.
Be Part of the Impact
For 35 years, the Charity Gala has shown what can happen when a community comes together around generosity. Every reservation and sponsorship helps turn one special weekend into meaningful investments throughout West Tennessee that support nonprofits, strengthen communities, and help our neighbors thrive.
Help us write the next chapter of impact and join us as we celebrate the 35th Annual Charity Gala.