Friday, October 17, 2025
6:30 pm - 11:30 pm
Laurel Manor
39000 Schoolcraft Road
Livonia, MI 48150
First Step Gala 2025 - Resilience, Community, and Moving Forward Together
Together, We Rise: The First Step Gala 2025
Do you want to support survivors of sexual assault? Consider attending or becoming a sponsor for the First Step Gala 2025. This year's theme, "You Are the Light," represents resilience and our ability to guide and support each other through this experience.
First Step offers unwavering sexual abuse support in Southeast Michigan. We know the experience changes how survivors see the world, and we want them to know they're not alone. This annual event gives community members a chance to connect and empower each other in a positive environment.
An Event to Empower Survivors and Build Community
You deserve to feel like a star, and First Step has designed the gala to feel like an awards ceremony. Mark your calendar for Friday, October 17th, 2025. Doors open at the Laurel Manor in Livonia at 6:15.
After you check in, take the time to enjoy the beautiful setting and speak with other guests. Everyone is there for sexual and domestic abuse support, so you'll have plenty in common.
Dinner starts at 7 pm and offers the choice of a chicken or vegetable dish. Listen to music by The Bluewater Kings, bid on the silent auction, and enjoy the open bar. Before the doors close at 11:30, you'll listen to empowering speakers and witness an awards show.
Your Presence Matters: Why Attend the Gala?
The First Step Gala 2025 isn't just for survivors; it's for everyone who's watched a loved one struggle with healing. Join us if you want to amplify First Step's and the community's ability to empower survivor resilience through solidarity, awareness, and advocacy.
We can't change lives and foster hope alone. Through generous donors and engaged attendees, we all create a community that changes lives and inspires progress.
First Step has a strong reputation for supporting survivors at all stages. We offer a 24-hour call line and response team that helps people overcome traumatic situations.
We provide legal help, financial assistance, and long-term counseling, among other services. The proceeds from the gala make it possible.
Be a Champion for Survivors Through Sponsorship
This event isn't possible without our generous sponsors. Consider representing your business through our flexible sponsorship program. Stand with our cause by choosing one of the following progressive levels:
- Glimmer sponsors receive two tickets and a program listing.
- The Ultraviolet level adds eight more tickets and a shout-out.
- Radiance sponsors receive a quarter-page advertisement and a website listing.
- Illumination ups the game with a half-page listing and an event-table logo display.
- As a Brilliance, you'll receive a full-page ad, a social media shout-out, and a wine pour during dinner.
- Luminescence expands the experience to 20 guests and amplifies exposure for your business.
- As the highest sponsor level, the Beacon of Hope participants enjoy a unique experience, including a tour.
Empower Change with a Simple Donation
Do you want to support the First Step Gala 2025 but can't commit to attending the event or becoming a sponsor? This year, we offer a donation option that provides a simple yet profound way to empower our cause. No gift is too small, and every dollar fuels the fight against abuse.
Your contribution enables our community education programs that go to schools, religious organizations, and businesses to provide crucial information about the effects of abuse. It also empowers us to offer transitional housing and emergency shelter to survivors in danger.
Don't underestimate your ability to affect change. Because we're a non-profit with a wide-reaching network, we amplify the value of every dollar. Visit our Donate Now page today.
Join First Step and Help Survivors Thrive
When you support the First Step Gala 2025, you make a life-changing impact in Southeast Michigan. Tickets and sponsorship spots are limited. Act today so you don't miss out on your chance to attend this event.
Even if you can't join us for the gala, you can put your money to work immediately by donating. Everyone knows a person who has experienced some form of domestic or sexual assault. Stand by them and show support by giving whatever you can.
Buy tickets online or call (734) 722 6800 for more information.
Do you have additional inquiries about our event? Would you like someone to help guide you through the registration process? If so, then e-mail Carrie at cbozman@firststep-mi.org. We would be happy to explain more about the First Step Gala and assist you with anything you need.