HOPE loves to celebrate and recognize our warrior community and honor those who serve them.
In 2010, we hosted our first of many Got Heart, Give Hope Galas and our friend Gary Sinise graciously hosted the event. For years, Gary Sinise and the Gary Sinise Foundation have been valued partners of HOPE, working alongside us in our mission.
With Gary Sinise, we were proud to present the first Vigiano Family Hope & Courage Awards, named in honor of John and Jan Vigiano, who lost both of their sons in New York City on 9/11. We were lucky to have John Vigiano co-host the event with Gary Sinise, as the story of his sons’ service and sacrifice and the continued service of him and his wife has been an inspiration to us for years. This special award recognizes service members and military family members who have demonstrated both hope and courage in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Although John is no longer with us, we continue to honor his legacy and that of his sons with the presentation of this award every year.
Today, the spirit and camaraderie of the Got Heart, Give Hope Gala has become a part of our annual Hope For The Warriors Invitational in the form of our Summer Soiree – bringing two of our most impactful HOPE events together for one weekend celebrating the service and dedication of our community.