Gala 2026 - The Arc of Northern Virginia %

Independence Belongs to Everyone Gala 2026

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Hilton McLean Tysons Corner

EVENT DETAILS

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Hilton McLean Tysons Corner, 7920 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, VA 22102

6:00 – 10:30 pm

Our Gala theme of “Independence Belongs to Everyone” encapsulates our dedication to fostering a community where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully, achieving independence on their own terms with the supports they need.

The Gala helps raise important funds that help make possible all of our programs, services, and advocacy education for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages and their families. This special event will bring together hundreds of community members, elected officials, and leaders in the business and philanthropic communities, alongside our longstanding supporters and partners.

EVENT AGENDA

Begin your evening on the Red Carpet and have your photo taken to commemorate the evening.

Enjoy socializing with other attendees during the complimentary Cocktail Reception. Browse the Silent Auction, and place your bids on the “must-have” items you discover.

Enjoy a seated Gourmet Dinner prepared by the Hilton’s classically-trained Executive Chef. Be inspired by the Evening’s Program and celebrate our honorees. Get caught up in the bidding excitement of the Live Auction.

Round out the evening with Music and Dancing.

NOMINATION NOW OPEN FOR COMMITMENT TO EMPLOYMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AWARDS

In recognition of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, The Arc of Northern Virginia is proud to present the “Commitment to Employment of Persons with Disabilities Awards” to recognize companies in Northern Virginia that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to providing employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Presentation of awards will take place at the Gala.

Learn more about the awards

TICKETS

Tickets go on sale September 1st, right here on our website. Stay tuned!

GALA CO-CHAIRS

Sunny & Steven Blanco and Lissy & Charley John

Sunny & Steven Blanco

Sunny Blanco is Vice President and Commercial Services Officer at United Bank and has served on The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Board of Directors for six years, including the past two years as Second Vice President. Sunny joined the Board to learn more about the disability community and to give back in her efforts to support and advocate for her daughter. She is co-chairing this year’s gala with her husband, Steven Blanco, Vice President and Senior Treasury Analyst at Freedom Bank.

“We are co-chairing the gala this year in support of the disability community and to help advance greater awareness. To us, ‘Independence Belongs to Everyone’ reflects the belief that every individual, regardless of perceived ability, should have the opportunity to lead an inclusive and fulfilling life free from barriers and limitations.”

Lissy & Charley John

Lissy John serves as Vice President of Enterprise Transformation at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, where she drives corporate-wide innovation. She has served on The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Board of Directors for eight years, including two years as Second Vice President. Lissy joined the Board to pay it forward after receiving support for her son, Maddox, who has a rare chromosomal disorder. She is co-chairing this year’s gala with her husband, Charley John, Vice President of Public Policy at UnitedHealth Group.

“When you have a child with an intellectual disability, you learn quickly that independence isn’t a given. It’s built, piece by piece, with the right support. I’m co-chairing this gala because I’ve seen what that support can do for my son, and I want every family in our community to have the same chance.”

BE A SPONSOR AND SUPPORT INDEPENDENCE FOR ALL!

We are fortunate to have the support of generous businesses, organizations, families, and individuals who share our commitment to building a more inclusive community. Gala sponsorships help maximize the impact of every dollar raised at this signature event, directly supporting and expanding the programs, services, and advocacy that empower the individuals and families we serve.

We invite you to join us as a Gala sponsor. View our Sponsorship Packet to learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits, or contact Lois Gaul at lois.gaul@thearcofnova.org with any questions.

View our Sponsorship Packet