On September 10, 2026, 450 guests gathered at The Post Oak Hotel in Houston, Texas, for Elijah Rising’s annual gala. Together, the community raised more than $870,000 to combat human trafficking and provide safe homes for survivors.
Centered on the theme “Dare to Reach,” the evening opened with a poem written by a graduate of Elijah Rising’s program. The poem drew inspiration from the biblical story of the woman who suffered from bleeding and dared to reach out to Jesus, receiving healing. It established a tone of faith, courage, and hope that carried throughout the evening.
Executive Director Micah Gamboa and Courtney Ritter shared accounts from the front lines of supporting women as they leave trafficking situations. Their stories offered insight into the complex and often dangerous process of escaping a trafficker, the vital role of a safe home, and the steady support survivors need as they build lives in freedom.
Elijah Rising also introduced its inaugural Freedom Award, which honors partners who go above and beyond to create sustainable solutions in the fight against human trafficking. Christian Brothers Automotive received the first award in recognition of its partnership and commitment to the mission.
Auctioneer Jonny Bravo brought energy and excitement to the live auction. One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when a quilt handmade by a survivor sold for $15,500, demonstrating the generosity and commitment of those in the room.
The evening included the debut of Reaching for Light: An Elijah Rising Original Short Film, written by Latoyia Waller and directed by Nathan Cadis Media. The original film brought the evening’s theme to life through a powerful story of reaching toward hope and healing. The program opened with an invocation from Pastor Clark Reynolds of Houston’s First Baptist Church, followed by a musical performance from vocalist Micah Graham.
The auction also featured a custom guitar handmade by Bob Wicker, one of Elijah Rising’s most faithful volunteers. Bob passed away earlier this year and left the guitar as a final gift for the gala auction. The instrument served as a meaningful tribute to his life and generosity. His legacy of service, faithfulness, and devotion to Jesus continues to influence the staff and volunteers who knew him.
Throughout the evening, the support of the Houston community was unmistakable. The room was filled with a shared determination to stand against human trafficking and help women build paths toward safety, stability, and freedom.
Elijah Rising extends special appreciation to Gala Chair Valerie McIntosh for her leadership and dedication in bringing the evening to life. Valerie was joined at the gala by her husband, Jason.
The organization also recognizes the program graduates and survivors whose voices and creative contributions helped shape the evening. Their courage, creativity, and willingness to share made the night especially meaningful.
Elijah Rising sincerely thanks everyone who made the gala possible, including its sponsors, Gala Advisory Board, Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, speakers, table hosts, donors, auction contributors and bidders, event partners, attendees, and The Post Oak Hotel team. Every gift of time, talent, resources, and encouragement contributed to the event’s success and will help advance Elijah Rising’s mission.
Because of this collective support, the impact of the 2026 Gala will reach far beyond the ballroom. Funds raised will help Elijah Rising continue its work to combat human trafficking and provide safe homes for survivors.
The gala may be over, but the work continues. Learn how you can support Elijah Rising through giving, volunteering, and advocacy.
