Report:  Hope for Iraqi Christians Fundraising Gala 2024 Summary Report

 The 8th Annual Hope Gala for Iraqi Christians

Friday 15 November 2024: A Night of Remembrance, Celebration, and Renewed Commitment to Supporting Iraq’s Neediest Christians

 The 8th Hope Gala for Iraqi Christians inspired a luminous evening dedicated to heightening awareness and raising much needed funding to help the most vulnerable individuals and families who are in most need in Northern Iraq.  Gathering supporters, dignitaries, faith leaders, and community members from San Diego and world-renowned special guest speakers, this annual event stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of Iraqi Christians and their steadfast support for each other. The gala commemorated the richness of the ancient Chaldean heritage, while underscoring critical awareness on the dire situation and the funds needed to address the ongoing hardship faced by Christian communities in Iraq.

A Night to Remember

Our Master-of-Ceremonies, Afaf Konja took our guests back in time to the ominous days when ISIS invaded towns across the Nineveh Plains.  Because that’s when Hope’s activism first began, in the summer of 2014.  Afaf shared her stark memories of how delegations sought her help, arriving at the United Nations from Michigan and San Diego, led by the late Biship Sarhad Jammo and Bishop Francis Kalabat, marking the10-Year Anniversary that night! The air filled with solemnity and sparked with reinvigoration through a shared sense of mission that came over the gala with even greater significance this year.

Distinguished Guests and Speakers

The gala boasted an impressive roster of guests and speakers, each lending their voice and influence to elevate the cause. Among the honored attendees were, His Excellency, Bishop Emmanuel Shalita, who leads the community in spirituality and commitment, as well as human rights activist, award-winning filmmaker and president and founder of HERO, Inc., Jason Jones was the Gala’s Special Guest Speaker. Jason captivated guests as he told his own story of tragic loss and how his experience revolutionized him and his life into one of compassionate service to humanity. Jason ignited each listening heart to seek and share hope through each other and delivered the moral imperative to stand with the most vulnerable.

Prominent members of the Iraqi Christian diaspora, like The Knights of Columbus, were also in attendance, helping to bring a vaster spotlight on the instability in the Christian regions of Iraq through service.  Dr John Kasawa, a local family physician and one of the founders of Hope for Iraqi Christians, gave an update on Hope’s initiative including Adopt a Needy Family, Shipment of Hope, gift boxes sent by military air to Iraq, and Donation Cans, a part of the Kids-to-Kids program.

Simon Yacoub, Hope for Iraqi Christians newest, and most innovative Board Member & Planning Committee Member unveiled the special items in the giftbags, and Dr. Kasawa returned to share a special historical account on, ‘Who are the Chaldeans”, an in-depth retelling of the lineage and influence of the Chaldeans, written by Father Michael Bazzi.   

Dr. Noori Barka, a co-founder of Hope for Iraqi Christians, reiterated the simplicity and transparency of the system, led by the diocese in Irbil, Iraq and provided a first-hand account of the donation flow of funds after his visit to some of our home-land villages, earlier this year.  He explained that an audit was done for the first time this year, whereby every family was visited, to ensure integrity through a needs assessment. His testimony underscored the great need for helping more families who are living below poverty levels, while giving hope to attendees that from 2014, over 3.6M in donations have been raised!

A heart-wrenching documentary on the persecution of Christians around the world, created by Jason Jones displayed the aftermath of the violence, and conflict, erasing culture, history and civilizations, yet revealed how the Christian faithful continue to gather in hope of a better life, a peaceful future.  “A testament to the power of hope”, as Jason put it. Later that evening, Jesse Hernandez held an Auction for Life, rousing up the audience with laughter, cheers, and funding!

Fundraising Success

The Hope Gala initiative has reached 400 families, equivalent to $40,000 per month. This is out of the more than 1600 families who are still in dire need. That equates to $100 per family per month, to be able to extend funds to as many of those in most need.

The generosity of attendees was evident throughout the evening, with donations surpassing expectations. The auction and direct contributions collectively raised significant funding, but much more is needed, because thousands of individuals and families remain alone with no aid.

Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to sponsors, donors, volunteers, and attendees whose support made the event possible. Special recognition was given to the planning committee, whose dedication and creativity ensured a meaningful and elegant evening.

This year’s gala was once again hosted at St Peter’s Chaldean Catholic Church Hall, a sold-out event of over 550 guests who enjoyed delicious food and beverages, during a social mixer hour. The unique night included a photo-booth to capture memories of the heart-felt event, as well as an authentic coffee bar and traditional warm Middle East pastries.

The evening was aired live on Facebook via Chaldean Radio & TV, reaching a greater audience and more potential donors.

On behalf of the poorest and persecuted of Iraq, we appreciate your donations!  Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts!  God bless you. See you in 2025!

In His name,

Hope for Iraqi Christians Board

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