2nd Annual Solari Inspiring Hope Gala Raises Over $370,000
By Brian O'Malley -
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Solari Crisis and Human Services hosted its second annual Inspiring Hope Gala on February 24, 2024, at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, raising $370,927 for suicide prevention resources in Arizona. Building off a successful inaugural gala in 2023, this event served as an opportunity for the community to come together in support of the Tempe-based nonprofit’s commitment to providing vital crisis and helpline services 24/7/365 and connections to mental health resources across Arizona.
Funds raised will directly benefit the nonprofit’s free suicide and crisis lifelines – 844-534-HOPE and 988 – and other programs, along with the organization's dedicated team of trained and compassionate specialists devoted to supporting individuals throughout their mental health journey through compassion, assessment, and resources.
“Solari extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, donated, and contributed to the success of our event – a testament to the power of community coming together for a common cause," said Justin Chase, Solari CEO. "The funds raised at the 2024 Inspiring Hope Gala will make a profound impact in the fight against suicide and provide hope to individuals and families across Arizona."
The gala was emceed by former on-air personality Kristy Siefkin and featured a live auction conducted by renowned auctioneer Subyn Novelle, along with impactful testimonials from those served by Solari. The three violinists of Urban Electra provided music during the cocktail hour and the evening was capped off with a DJ and dancing.
Staffed 24/7 by Solari’s professionally trained Crisis Intervention Specialists in Arizona, 844-534-HOPE and 988 are free and confidential services available in English and Spanish. In 2023, the nonprofit received an average of more than 43,000 calls to the Arizona statewide crisis line and 988 per month with an average speed of answer of less than 10 seconds. Just under 80 percent of the time, crisis call specialists were able to stabilize the situation over the phone. If the situation cannot be stabilized over the phone, Solari dispatches a discreet mobile crisis team to meet with the caller face-to-face.
