Thank You for Making UnGala a Success!
This October, Esperanza Academy transformed its fall gala event into a high-impact UnGala: a one-day, online campaign designed for maximum efficiency. By eliminating event costs, the UnGala put every dollar raised back into programs that fuel opportunities for Esperanza students and alumni.
Esperanza’s Board Development Committee played a vital role in championing this innovative approach, taking a risk to prioritize both the community’s time and the joy of collective giving. Their input helped the Esperanza team design a campaign that was operationally efficient, empowering for students, and easy for supporters to engage.
Anchored by the bold goal of raising $60,000 in one day, the UnGala launched with strength, thanks to two anonymous donors providing a $20,000 matching gift. Supporters rallied in response to personal emails, impact-driven videos, and inspiring stories featuring students and staff.
Donors helped unlock more opportunities for Esperanza girls with every gift. Bidders also vied for exclusive silent auction prizes, including framed student art, a Seaport overnight getaway, North Shore restaurant gift cards, Boston Celtics tickets, and an Esperanza “Staff Favorites” basket.
Email and social updates throughout the campaign kept energy high and momentum growing. Over two weeks, beginning with a mailed letter and culminating in our 24-hour virtual UnGala celebration, 75 supporters helped Esperanza Academy raise nearly $71,000, surpassing our goal and funding transformative experiences for girls in Lawrence.
Launching the UnGala as a “no event, just impact” fundraising experience was a great success. “We know our supporters lead busy lives and give so much to our school,” said Pati Fernandez, Chief Development Officer. “This UnGala allowed everyone to participate from wherever they are, and made sure every dollar created more opportunities for our students.”
Esperanza Academy remains committed to a tuition-free, affirming, and rigorous education for girls in Lawrence. Esperanza looks forward to gathering with supporters for its annual Spring Gala at the State Room in Boston on April 29, where the stories and successes from this fall’s UnGala will be celebrated in person.
The words of Adrianna and the success of over 250 alumni who now share their gifts with so many other communities remind us of what your generosity makes possible. As we prepare for another transformative school year with our 60 students, we ask for your partnership in creating endless opportunities.
