An evening of generosity turned into more than $1.3 million in opportunities for Atlantans working to rebuild their lives.
City of Refuge, an Atlanta-based nonprofit serving individuals and families in crisis, raised more than $1.3 million during its annual fundraiser, The Gathering, on Oct. 21 at The Foundry at Puritan Mill on Atlanta’s Westside. The event brought together more than 500 guests for an evening of live entertainment, auctions and personal stories to support the organization’s housing, workforce development and community programs.
Founded in 1997, City of Refuge provides housing, job training, health and wellness services and educational opportunities to help individuals and families achieve long-term stability and independence.
Edward Phillips, Chief Development Officer at City of Refuge, said The Gathering has served as the organization’s signature fall fundraiser for nearly 15 years, growing from an on-campus gathering into one of its largest annual events.
“This event has historically raised at least a million dollars to support City of Refuge and our overall programming,” Phillips said.
This year’s event was its largest yet, featuring more than 80 silent auction items, six live auction experiences and a performance by award-winning singer-songwriter Ellie Holcomb.
Guests began the evening with a cocktail reception and silent auction before dinner; a live auction and Holcomb’s performance soon followed. The evening concluded with a fundraising appeal, inviting attendees to contribute amounts ranging from $250 to $50,000.
“I think my favorite would really be the giving moment,” Phillips said. “You see people step up, and they’re giving publicly through raising their paddles, …stepping out in generosity.”
The evening’s theme, “WITH,” emphasized the organization’s belief that lasting change comes from working alongside people rather than simply providing assistance.
Two individuals, Stephanie and Kevin*, attended as their stories of transformation were shared.
Stephanie, who previously struggled with addiction, received housing and recovery support before completing workforce training and securing employment. Kevin, who experienced unemployment and housing instability, completed City of Refuge’s cybersecurity training program, earned certifications and secured a full-time position as a data center technician. Both now live independently.
“They are ultimately the hero of the story. We are not the hero in that story,” Phillips said, describing the organization’s approach to helping participants move from crisis to stability.
The $1.3 million raised, slightly exceeding last year’s total, will support several initiatives, including new transportation vehicles for program participants and students, holiday camps, educational scholarships and expanded workforce training.
*Last names were omitted in order to protect their privacy.
Phillips said City of Refuge also plans to develop skilled trades programs offering training in electrical work, maintenance and eventually plumbing and HVAC.
The funding builds on the organization’s existing work. In 2025, City of Refuge placed 607 individuals into jobs, provided housing for 910 people and served more than 315,000 meals.
The nonprofit also opened its Transformation Center in 2026, adding 25 affordable apartments and community resources, while expanding the tuition-free City School Atlanta to serve students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Longtime supporters Mark and Nancy Toro co-chaired The Gathering. Mark Toro, a City of Refuge board member and founder and chief vision officer of Toro Development Company, helped connect the event with Atlanta’s business and real estate communities. His company’s $560 million Medley development in Johns Creek is scheduled to celebrate its grand opening Oct. 29.
Corporate sponsors also contributed to the fundraiser, with Gas South offering to match additional donations dollar for dollar, up to $10,000.
As City of Refuge approaches its 30th anniversary in 2027, Phillips hopes the event’s impact will extend beyond financial contributions, encouraging attendees to volunteer and engage directly with the people the organization serves.
“We want them to come and see it, and truly walk with individuals here as well,” Phillips said.
For City of Refuge, the evening’s success was measured not only in dollars raised, but in the opportunities those dollars could create for Atlantans seeking a more stable future.
