A Night to Remember. A Legacy to Continue.
Friday, October 10, 2025 | Harlem, NYC
Celebrating 10 Years of Vision and Impact
ABOUT THE GALA
Ten years ago, in 2015, a spark was lit in Winston-Salem, North Carolina — during the National Black Theatre Festival. That night, at the Hawthorne Inn, a last-minute conversation with actress Yvonne Stickney turned into a defining moment: she and her brother, soap opera actor Timothy D. Stickney, stepped in as surprise hosts and turned what could have been a crisis into an iconic celebration of Black artistry.
Now, exactly one decade later — on Friday, October 10, 2025 — we return to the stage. This time, in Harlem.
The Harlem Collective Gala is more than a benefit. It’s a 10-year celebration of purpose, persistence, and the power of creative vision. It’s a tribute to the past, a spotlight on the present, and a commitment to the future of Black arts, music, education, and wellness.
This year’s gala also falls on the birthday of our founder, Jarvus Ricardo Hester — the visionary behind this movement. What better way to honor his legacy than by supporting the very institutions he’s built to serve the community?
Come celebrate 10 years of excellence, joy, and Harlem-born brilliance.
LEGACY OF HOSTS
The very first Harlem Collective Gala — produced under the Live Free Magazine banner — was a miracle in motion. Hosted spontaneously by Yvonne Stickney and her brother Timothy D. Stickney, it set the tone for a new era of cultural events with heart and soul.
Later, beloved comedian and actress Karen Bankhead, known for her unforgettable character Miss Etta May Mumphries, brought laughter, warmth, and unforgettable charm to the next gala.
This year, all three legends have been invited back to co-host our 10-year anniversary celebration in Harlem. Their presence signals a full-circle moment for a movement built on faith, community, and the enduring power of Black excellence.
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Friday, October 10, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Red Carpet at 5:00 PM)
Location: [Venue Name] | Harlem, NYC
Theme: One Voice. One Harlem.
Attire: Harlem Elegance | Black Tie Creative
Special Moment: 10-Year Anniversary Tribute & Birthday Toast for Jarvus Ricardo Hester
WHY IT MATTERS
This gala supports four powerful programs shaping Harlem’s cultural future:
Harlem Collective Opera Company
Harlem’s only Black opera company, producing year-round classical works, music therapy concerts, and wellness-centered performances.
Harlem Boys Choir
A modern revival of a legendary tradition — uplifting Black and Brown boys through choral music, mentorship, and life-changing performance experiences.
Harlem Chamber Orchestra
An intergenerational ensemble creating access to classical music through public concerts, youth collaborations, and community-centered storytelling through sound.
www.harlemchamberorchestra.org
Mood Life Events
Our weekday lifestyle and wellness programming — featuring performances, panels, workshops, and walking tours that uplift the mind, body, and spirit of Harlem residents.
TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP
Individual Ticket – $250
Includes full dinner, open bar, red carpet access, and performance program.
Founding Sponsor Table – $2,500
Includes seating for 8 plus full Q4 Harlem Collective media sponsorship (valued at $25,000):
- Half-page print ad in Mood Magazine
- Full-page digital ad
- 30-second commercials on TV, podcast, and web platforms
- Web banners across all Harlem Collective websites
- 5 social posts per month (per brand)
- Recognition at 20 Harlem events during the quarter
Presenting Sponsor Table – $5,000
Includes all Founding Sponsor benefits plus:
- Premier table location
- Red carpet press photo opportunity
- On-stage recognition and brand inclusion in press materials
CELEBRITY HOST INVITATION
Celebrity guests participating in this year’s gala are invited to join our yearlong endorsement campaign, designed to elevate and amplify Harlem’s creative excellence.
Celebrity Host Package Includes:
- $50,000 in-kind tax write-off (via Harlem Collective 501(c)(3))
- $2,500 cash honorarium
- One-day media shoot for branded content (holiday greetings, campaign videos, gala promos)
- Full wardrobe styling and production direction
To inquire, contact: [email protected]
COMMEMORATIVE MERCH & MEMORABILIA
Launching August 1, 2025
To celebrate this milestone, we’re offering exclusive commemorative items — with 100% of proceeds supporting Harlem Collective programs.
Available online and at the gala:
- One Voice. One Harlem. 10-Year Anniversary T-Shirts
- Collector’s Edition Gala Posters
- Harlem Collective Signature Pins & Journals
- Framed archival prints from the 2015 gala
- Special Gala Issue of Mood Magazine
Pre-orders begin August 1 at:
Pickup available at the gala merch table or via shipping.
RESERVE YOUR PLACE
To purchase tickets or sponsor a table, visit:
Sponsorship Inquiries: [email protected]
Celebrity Partnerships: [email protected]
