The gala returns to an in-person gathering with several COVID-19 protective measures, including proof of vaccination and capped attendance at half capacity to allow for more distancing.

“We are beyond excited and grateful to once again host our signature event,” said Jennie Lucca, CEO of The Children’s Inn at NIH. “This gathering is an opportunity for The Inn to recognize our unwavering and committed partners whose generosity improves the health and well-being of Inn families while they seek medical treatment at the National Institutes of Health. After the challenges of the past two years, we look forward to an evening with you as we celebrate life and hope.”

The Inn, located on the NIH campus in Bethesda, enhances groundbreaking medical discoveries in advancing cases. Since the gala’s inception in 2013, the funds raised at the “An Evening for Hope” gala have been the single largest source of income to support The Inn’s ongoing operations.

“I would like to express my profound gratitude to the organizing committee for helping us plan and bring back An Evening of Hope despite new challenges,” noted Todd Pantezzi, 2022 Hope Gala Chair, Children’s Inn Trustee and Chief Strategy Officer at CVP Corp. “This distinguished gala is a testament to the power of many different people working toward a common goal. …. Additionally, because of your continued support, The Inn can continue its vital role as a partner in hope and discovery with the National Institutes of Health.”

Acting NIH Director Laurence A. Tabak will deliver the keynote. NBC News 4 anchor Shawn Yancy, a recipient of Emmy Awards and the Edward R. Murrow Award, will serve as the event emcee.

The Children’s Inn at NIH has served more than 14,500 children, teens, and young adults, and their families from all 50 states and 105 countries since its opening in 1990. Located on the NIH campus, across from the world’s largest hospital dedicated entirely to clinical research, The Inn’s children, teens, and young adults have participated in 522 clinical research studies, representing advances in treating cancer, bone and growth disorders, mental illness, genetic conditions, and other serious health issues.