The energy inside the JW Marriott Camelback Inn ballroom was electric, as a spirited crowd of 500 gathered to support Hospice of the Valley’s compassionate care and community programs. 

The result was a historic $1.2 million raised at this year’s charity gala: aaha! art. food. wine.


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The evening was a vibrant celebration of community and generosity. Guests were wowed by breathtaking tablescapes by White House Design Studio, entertained by Nate Nathan and the MacDaddy-Os and awestruck by the exquisite collection of fine art, jewelry and trips featured in the silent and live auction. 

High-stakes bidding led by premier auctioneer Letitia Frye reached a fever pitch as supporters vied for “bucket-list” experiences, including a luxury stay at Montana’s Triple Creek Ranch and a high-octane Formula 1 package.

The heart of the evening remained focused on the nonprofit’s mission of caring. The funds raised will provide a critical safety net for our community. 

7R503785 Winning bidder!
7R502178 Nicholas and Michelle Sayles with sponsor Gentle Hearts Living Solutions
7R503440 Krisstin and Dr. Gobi Paramanandam
7R502231 Joe and Liset Feltham, CEO Debbie Shumway, Gala Chair JoEllen Feltham, Janice Brambilla
7R503328 Sydney Fox and sponsor Penny Papadopoulos and Caroline Auza
7R502283 aaha! committee members Sandy Williams and Lee Anne Kline
7R503395 Barry Young and Kim Komando
7R502409 Tom and Lin Sue Flood, Director of Community Engagement
7R503479 Glenn and Felicia Pahnke win the Josh Tobey sculpture!
7R502443 Champagne Ladies
7R503743 Auctioneer Letitia Frye thanking the bidders!
7R502979 Chris and Kimberly Guimarin, Tran Appell, Jack Davito and Carol Warstler, Will and Gayle Korbin, Robyn Allen, Jen Pate, Tom Kaminsky
7R502549 Mike and Alina Junkermeier perusing art
7R503036 aaha! artist Freddie Lieberman and committee member Carol Kern  
7R502779 Dinner sponsors Jack and Vianne Kucera with sponsors Mona and Kelly Sands

Photos provided by Hospice of the Valley.

“We are beyond grateful for everyone’s generosity,” said Hospice of the Valley CEO Debbie Shumway. “Together, we are ensuring that every person in need receives comfort, dignity and compassionate care, regardless of financial circumstances.

This record-breaking night also enables Hospice of the Valley’s specialized programs to continue to expand, from dementia support to grief counseling and community education provided at no charge.

None of this would have been possible without the leadership of event chair JoEllen Feltham and major support from the Kucera and Moreno family foundations, Tom Ajamie and Family, Susan and Bill Levine, OnePoint Patient Care and the MJ Companies plus every individual who helped make the 2026 gala so successful. View the full photo gallery here.

Learn more: hov.org or email info@hov.org