Summary
Join us for one of Defiance’s most meaningful charity events, the 2025 Defiance Area Foundation Gala. Tickets are on sale until September 19th. Celebrate generosity, impact, and community.
When people think of charity events, they often picture glamorous evenings with live music, dinner, and inspiring speeches. While those things are true of the Defiance Area Foundation Gala, our event goes deeper…it’s about celebrating generosity, honoring legacies, and building a stronger future for Defiance County.
With the Gala just around the corner, now is the perfect time to secure your tickets before the September 19th deadline. You can purchase tickets online through PayPal at on our website.
The Purpose of the Gala
At its heart, the Gala is not just a social event, it’s a cornerstone of community philanthropy. The Defiance Area Foundation exists to help individuals, families, and organizations turn their charitable dreams into lasting legacies. Through scholarships, donor advised funds, and grants, the Foundation has supported everything from education and healthcare to parks and community services.
The Gala is a moment to:
Celebrate generosity – Honoring donors, fundholders, and partners who give back to the community.
Highlight impact – Sharing stories of how Foundation funds directly improve lives in Defiance County.
Inspire future giving – Encouraging others to get involved, start funds, or become members.
Build connections – Bringing together community leaders, neighbors, and friends who believe in making Defiance stronger.
Why Charity Events Like the Gala Matter
While charity events are often seen as a night of celebration, they are powerful tools for real change. They:
Raise awareness of local causes that need support.
Strengthen community bonds by uniting people around shared values.
Provide financial resources that fuel scholarships, grants, and long-term initiatives.
Create momentum for future projects, inspiring others to give or volunteer.
As Charity Navigator points out, events like these offer both immediate support and long-term engagement opportunities. And Nonprofit Hub highlights how charity galas help donors connect emotionally with causes they care about.
What to Expect at the Gala
We want you to feel both welcomed and inspired when you attend. While it is an elegant evening, it is not a stuffy or formal presentation. Think of it as a community celebration with friends, neighbors, and supporters.
The evening will include casual, heartfelt remarks from:
Chris Yoder – Defiance Area Foundation Executive Director
Mike McCann – Mayor of Defiance
Jim Williams – 2023–2025 DAF Board President
Dan Michel – 2025–2027 DAF Board President
Bryan Keller – Keller Family Foundation, 2025 Gala Diamond Sponsor
These aren’t speeches to sit through; they’re stories and reflections from those deeply invested in our community’s future.
The Impact of the Foundation
Because of community support and events like the Gala, the Defiance Area Foundation has been able to:
Award over $1,481,165 this year to local nonprofits for projects, programs, and capital improvements.
Contribute $5,000 toward a new well at the Recovery Services Women’s Shelter, ensuring clean and reliable water for women and children in need.
Grow the Community Fund, which distributes grants bi-annually to address current local needs.
Every ticket purchased helps ensure this legacy of generosity continues.
How to Get Tickets?
Tickets for the Gala are available now, but the deadline to purchase is September 19th, just two weeks away. There are two simple ways to purchase:
Online via PayPal – Visit our website.
- Cash or Check – Mail or drop off your payment at the Foundation office: 613 West Third Street Defiance, Ohio 43512.
By securing your ticket, you’re not just buying a seat at a dinner, you’re investing in the future of Defiance County.
Why You Should Join Us
Still on the fence? Here are a few reasons why attending is worth it:
You’ll enjoy a beautiful evening out while supporting a great cause.
You’ll meet community leaders, neighbors, and philanthropists who care about the same things you do.
You’ll hear inspiring stories of generosity in action.
You’ll be part of a tradition that ensures Defiance’s future is bright.
The Gala is more than just another date on the calendar, it’s one of the most impactful charity events in Defiance County. By attending, you’re helping to create a Legacy of Generosity, where today’s gifts build tomorrow’s opportunities.
But remember, tickets are only available until September 19th. Each ticket is $150.
Don’t wait. Purchase your tickets today online or by visiting us at the Foundation office. Together, we can celebrate generosity and continue building a stronger future for our community.
