MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
2025 THEME: RAY OF HOPE
Where communities rise, so does hope. Join us for an inspiring evening of raising funds to disrupt global poverty.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF UTAH
Rio Tinto Center
301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City 84108
6:30-7:30 PM
Reception & Silent Auction
7:30 PM
Program, Dinner, Entertainment
Right click and save the image above to share the invitation with others.
GALA PROGRAM INCLUDES:
HEATHER HAMMOND CRUZ
Speaker
Heather Hammond Cruz is the CEO of CHOICE Humanitarian and a passionate champion of community-led development. With a background in nonprofit strategy, social innovation, and corporate social responsibility, Heather brings over two decades of experience in building partnerships that expand opportunity and dignity.
Steven Sharp Nelson
Steven Sharp Nelson is an internationally-renowned cellist who has played to millions of people in venues around the world and is a founding member of The Piano Guys (known for their viral YouTube channel and epic music videos). Steven recently participated in a CHOICE Expedition to Nepal with his family. While there, he shared his musical talents with the Liti community. At our gala, he'll perform a special musical number that will uplift and inspire.
DIANA PETERSON
2025 Recipient, James B. Mayfield Humanitarian Award
Diana has been a generous supporter and deeply engaged philanthropist across Utah for many years—and a dedicated champion of CHOICE for nearly two decades. Her leadership as a former Board Chair and her unwavering commitment to giving selflessly and passionately have inspired many and helped drive lasting pathways out of poverty.
We are honored to celebrate the meaningful impact Diana has had on CHOICE, on our global community, and most importantly, on the individuals and families we serve around the world.
RUTH TODD
Master of Ceremonies
Ruth Todd is an award-winning broadcast journalist, Global Fortune 1000 C-suite leader, and communications executive with a career spanning major news networks and global nonprofits. Known for her warmth, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences, Ruth brings a thoughtful presence to this year’s gala as our master of ceremonies. Her deep roots in storytelling and humanitarian work make her the perfect guide for an evening centered on impact and shared humanity.
Tom Riles
Auctioneer
Tom Riles returns to the CHOICE Gala as our auctioneer after bringing down the house last year with his heart, humor, and high-energy style. A seasoned entertainer and broadcast professional with experience on Emmy Award-winning national television, Tom knows how to bring people together for good. With years of experience in live events and philanthropy, he masterfully blends meaning with momentum to raise support for causes that matter.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
The annual CHOICE gala is our most vital fundraising event during the year. The money that is raised throughout the evening will impact thousands of lives. Here's how you can help make a difference:
Bid in the Auction
Get ready to bid on beautiful items from our countries, premium products from CHOICE partners and friends, and donated experiences.
There's something for everyone in our silent and live auctions! (coming soon)
DONATE
GIVE a one-time gift or join the Disruptors, our monthly giving program.
CHOICE expeditions are also a life-changing way to be a part of community-managed projects in the field. LEARN MORE.
SHARE AND INVITE
Our mission has greater impact when people everywhere become advocates for poverty solutions.
If you have family, friends, or colleagues who are passionate about global change, INVITE THEM to attend the gala.
AN EVENING ABOUT CHANGING THE WORLD
At the annual CHOICE gala, we'll celebrate the amazing impact that we've seen this past year in the rural communities where CHOICE works—and discuss the opportunity we have to continually expand the range of options for underserved individuals and families.
THE EVENING WILL INCLUDE:
- A reception, socializing, and silent & live auctions
- Entertainment, dinner, inspiring program, and more
Gala Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors who passionately support the work of reducing global poverty.
Global Sponsor
Country Sponsor
In-Kind Sponsor
Join us in this important work—you can change lives today.
