One Step Beyond—a leading provider of comprehensive programming and services for adults who have intellectual disabilities—is commemorating 20 years of impact at the 20th Anniversary and Help Us Grow (HUG) Gala held at The Duce in Phoenix on Sat., Oct. 14 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. The special event will include uplifting presentations, a live auction, cocktail hour, plated dinner, live bands and more. ABC 15 investigative reporter Melissa Blasius, who has received some of the top journalism awards in the nation for her work on behalf of Arizona families, will emcee the event.

“One Step Beyond has had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable achievements of our participants over the past 20 years and with your support we can do even more in the next 20,” said One Step Beyond CEO Madison Blanton. “As we celebrate this milestone, the HUG Gala will shine a light on the accomplishments of our participants and the milestones that they have achieved in our programs including securing meaningful employment and graduating from community college.”

In honor of the 20th Anniversary and HUG Gala, One Step Beyond will also host a day event at The Duce in Phoenix on Sat., Oct. 14 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the public with food and drink available for sale. Casual attire is preferred.

Those interested in attending the 20th Anniversary and HUG Gala in the evening may purchase individual tickets or table admission packages at osbi.org/gala. Individual tickets are available for $200 per person and a table of 10 is available for $2,000. Tickets include admission, access to the live auction, cocktail hour and plated dinner.

One Step Beyond will also be holding an after-hours party from 9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. that will feature live music and dancing. Tickets are available for $25 and can also be purchased online at osbi.org/gala.

In addition to celebrating OSBI and its participants, the 20th Anniversary and HUG Gala will present six recipients with the annual HUG Award, which recognizes individuals who have made a positive impact on the lives of people with intellectual disability.

“We are appreciative of the support from key individuals in our community who use their voice and take action to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are fully included in all areas of life,” added Blanton. “The HUG Award honors advocates that are not only raising awareness but challenging the misconceptions and stigmas surrounding disabilities.”

Those who are unable to attend but still wish to support One Step Beyond’s mission can contribute by making a monetary donation online.

If you are an individual or business interested in sponsoring this event, please contact Suzanne Romaine at suzanneromaine@osbi.org.

About One Step Beyond, Inc.

Phoenix-based One Step Beyond, Inc. (OSBI) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programming and services for adults who have intellectual disabilities. One Step Beyond empowers its members to achieve independence, self-sufficiency, and employment through innovative culinary, education, fitness, and arts programs, as well as strategic partnerships with local businesses that enable participants to contribute to and achieve greater social participation in their communities. One Step Beyond has four locations in the Phoenix Metro area, including Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale, and Surprise, and a location in San Carlos, California. For more information about One Step Beyond programs and services, visit https://osbi.org/.