The suggested dress code is cocktail/formal.
6:15p, with a champagne/sparkling cider stroll available for all guests.
Dinner starts at 7p but we encourage everyone to arrive earlier to get checked in, find their seats, take photos, and check out the auction items!
This year we will be using OneCause again for our silent auction!
The auction will be live a week before the Gala, but previews will be available leading up to the event.
Yes! If you have a unique opportunity or special item you would like to donate to our auction please email Carrie Bozman, cbozman@firststep-mi.org, to discuss next steps.
To receive a complete sponsorship benefit package, all sponsorships must be secured by August 31, 2026. Regular ticket sales will continue until October 1, 2026.
There is no physical ticket. Upon arrival you will visit our registration table. If you are pre-registered, our team will be able to usher you through the process quickly.
Pre-registering your card will make your event experience seamless from registration to check-out. OneCause follows international PCI (payment card industry) standards for data security. All OneCause applications, network components, critical servers, and wireless access points are consistent with industry-accepted hardening standards.
We accept Visa or Mastercard. We also accept checks made payable to First Step. Cash will also be accepted for things such as tips, raffle, wine pull, as well as cash donations. There will be a wine pull, a 50/50 raffle, and silent auction. The 50/50 raffle will be cash only.
A salad will be the starter and the main course is a chicken entree with potatoes and vegetables. The vegetarian/vegan main course is a stacked vegetable tower with lentils. Both main courses are Gluten Free. For dessert we will have house curated Italian cookies. Vegans will have a sorbet option for dessert.
An open bar is provided with your ticket purchase. Water, soda pop, and coffee are also included in your ticket purchase.
While there is no age restriction, this event is catered towards adults with its food, drink, and atmosphere, and features speakers and information that may be difficult for a young audience to hear and comprehend as it relates to intimate partner violence and sexual assault.
Please email Carrie at cbozman@firststep-mi.org if you are transferring your ticket with the information for the person who will be attending. You can edit your guest list by logging into your OneCause account or by contacting Carrie Bozman. If changes are needed on the day of the event, you must see Carrie Bozman at the registration table. Meals cannot be changed the night of the event.
Yes.
Yes. First Step needs first and last name, email address, phone number, and food choice for each guest. There are two options to submit this information, either online through a registration email from OneCause, or written on the form sent to you by First Step. Guest information is due by October 2, 2026.
Valet parking is not available. There is a designated coat room where you will be able to place your coat. Laurel Manor & First Step are not responsible for any lost or damaged items.
Laurel Manor is fully ADA/ACA accessible. You can contact Laurel Manor directly at (734)462-0770 or reach out to First Step at cbozman@firststep-mi.org.
As a cherished supporter of survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, your contribution plays a crucial role in helping First Step provide free comprehensive services and support to those in Southeast Michigan. First Step has been a beacon of hope for survivors, offering a range of programs and services to address their unique needs. From our emergency shelter, equipped with a pet shelter on-site (ARK), to our 24-hour helpline, counseling, transitional housing, and legal advocacy programs, we strive to create a safe and supportive environment of healing for all.
You can contact Carrie Bozman at cbozman@firststep-mi.org.