The sold-out 2023 Alleluia Ball attracted more than 800 guests who helped raise funds for Catholic education in Northeast Ohio.
“Let Their Dreams Soar” was the theme for the Oct. 28 event at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. The gala was organized by the Catholic Community Foundation, which supports the mission of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland by encouraging faithful philanthropy. Foundation officials said proceeds from the ball will benefit students in the 2024-2025 academic year.
This year’s event chairs were Mary Lynn and Mike Silvestro, with Beth and Mike Valentine as co-chairs. Honorary chair was Lorraine Frankino-Dodero.
The evening began with Mass and included dinner, speakers, fundraising, music and dancing.
(See above for a photo gallery from the event.)
Special guest for the evening was Lou Holtz, the legendary football coach, analyst and author. Holtz captivated the audience with stories about his own Catholic education from the Sisters of Notre Dame. He offered thoughts about life being a matter of choices, and suggestions on how to make good decisions. He also challenged guests to ask themselves, “If you didn’t show up, who would miss you and why?”
Bishop Edward Malesic thanked Gov. Mike DeWine, who attended the gala, for his work in expanding state scholarship options which now benefit many more students. The bishop also thanked all sponsors and guests for supporting students throughout our diocese who might not be able to attend Catholic schools without their help.
“We have thousands of reasons to be here and to be generous tonight,” the bishop said, referring to students in elementary and high schools throughout the diocese. He also expressed his gratitude for the generosity of Northeastern Ohioans. “When there is a need, the people of our diocese respond with their expertise, their time and their financial assistance,” he said.
The bishop said the generosity of Alleluia Ball attendees could help change lives. “What you do here tonight makes a huge investment in our schoolchildren that will have a tremendously positive effect on their lives. With your help, our students and their families can achieve their dreams of a Catholic education.”
Currently, more than 4,000 students attending the 106 Catholic schools in the diocese benefit from the Diocesan Tuition Assistance and Fund A Dream programs. Both programs provide families with access to a Catholic education. Diocesan Tuition Assistance funds both general tuition assistance as well as special scholarship programs. Through the Fund A Dream initative, $2,500 in tuition assitance is provided to individual students identified by schools through the scholarship application process. Students communicate with their donor throughout the year, providing them updates on how their year is going while thanking them for their support.
The Alleluia Ball has a rich history. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $10 million to support Catholic schools and families who seek a Catholic education for their children.
Click here for information about supporting Catholic education. Learn more about Fund a Dream here