Gather for GRAD is a series of intimate, community-hosted events across Akron designed to raise meaningful support for Project GRAD Akron and the students we serve.
Hosted in homes, businesses, patios, and gathering spaces, each event brings people together in a way that feels personal, purposeful, and rooted in community. Whether you're hosting a lively open party or a more intimate gathering, every event helps build momentum for Akron students.
2026 Gather for GRAD Events
To submit payment, use the secure link for each event or mail checks directly to the office. Please note that reservations for events are limited.
Monday Night Out: Motown, Merlot, Mini Bites, and More!
Hosted by: Jacqueline Silas-Butler, Dana LaGarde, Debra Sommerville, and Tanya Lundy
Location: The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Barberton Ohio
Public event
Cost: $100 per person
Happy Hour for GRAD
Hosted by: Kimberly Moses
Location: Silver Lake Country Club
Public event
Cost: $125 per person
Mahjong 101
Hosted by: Kat Allen Martucci & Robin Rohrich with in-kind donation from Sue Locke
Location: Portage County Club
Public event
Cost: $100 per person
More events coming soon, hosted by
Ann Otto, Barbara Feld, & Betsy Engels
Ebony Yeboah-Amankwah & Steven Dimengo
Joseph May
Become a Host
Host in a way that feels like you.
Hosting a Gather for GRAD event is a meaningful way to support Project GRAD Akron while bringing your network together around a shared purpose.
Choose the style of gathering that fits your space and your people:
Open Party
A larger, high-energy gathering designed to build awareness, spark new connections, and introduce more people to the mission.
Great for patios, businesses, and hosts who love to bring a crowd together.
Closed Party
A smaller, more intentional gathering that allows for deeper conversation and connection.
Perfect for dinners, brunches, or curated guest lists in your home.
Hosting an Event (Easy as 1,2,3!)
Simple, consistent elements that make every event impactful.
Show the Project GRAD Akron video
Share the featured impact video during your event to connect guests directly to the mission and the students behind it.
Raise a minimum of $1,000
Each event is expected to generate at least $1,000 through a personal contribution, guest donations, or a combination of both.
Register your event
All gatherings must be officially registered with Project GRAD Akron so our team can provide support, materials, and track the collective impact.
Host Commitment
A clear, meaningful way to show up.
All hosts commit to raising or contributing a minimum of $1,000.
This can be fulfilled through:
A personal contribution
Guest donations
A combination of both
Project GRAD Akron will support you every step of the way with messaging, materials, and guidance to make your event easy to host and impactful.
Join the Series
Open your space. Invite your people. Make an impact.
Become a Gather for GRAD host and help turn community connection into lasting impact for Akron students.
To become a host or for more information, please email Jackie Silas-Butler