1. How was it planning the 5th Annual Songs of Hope?
It was definitely challenging, but also incredibly rewarding!
I started my role as the Event and Donor Relations Specialist at Caritas of Austin about 90 days before the event, so I was learning everything in real time while also executing a major fundraiser.
There was a learning curve, but I was really lucky to be surrounded by such a supportive and knowledgeable team. So many people stepped in to help me understand what Songs of Hope means and the impact it has on our community, even after the event is over.
It truly was a team effort. Our Development team, along with so many staff members who volunteered their time, played a huge role in making the event successful.
There is no way this could have come together without that collective effort, and I’m really grateful to have been part of it.
2. How does this event impact those we serve?
100% of the proceeds from Songs of Hope go directly back into Caritas of Austin’s programs, which provide tailored services to our clients and help prevent and end homelessness here in Austin.
That means we are not just addressing immediate needs, but really supporting people as they rebuild their lives with stable housing, food supplies, employment support, and access to critical resources.
It is also just a really special night where people come together for a shared purpose. It is philanthropy, but in a way that feels engaging, celebratory, and connected to the Austin community.
3. What was your favorite moment of this year’s event?
My favorite moment was seeing a Caritas client, Britton, at the event, enjoying himself. He was actually featured in the video we shared that night, where he told his story, and seeing him there in person with his family was really powerful.
It felt like everything came full circle.
He was able to be in the same space as the people whose support makes this work possible and just genuinely have a good time. It was one of those moments that really remind you why events like this matter.
It was incredibly heartwarming and honestly a little surreal in the best way.
4. What would you like people to know about this event that might make them come to the one next year?
Having experienced Songs of Hope for the first time this year and having been part of many fundraising events before, I can honestly say it is one of the most fun I have seen! Even while working the event, I could not help but notice how much people were enjoying themselves.
Yes, the goal is to raise money for Caritas programs, but it is also a chance for people who care about this mission to come together and celebrate the impact we have made as a community over the years. There is something really special about that shared energy in the room.
And being in Austin, we really lean into the live music aspect. We have live performances throughout the event, which not only create a great atmosphere but also give us a chance to support local artists.
It really feels like a true Austin experience!
5. What are you most excited about for the future of this event?
I am really excited about how this event is evolving. As it continues to grow, we are starting to think about how we can further expand the experience.
Next year, we are introducing something new while still keeping the spirit of Songs of Hope, with a new name, the Austin Originals Festival, and a new format of the event. It will bring even more exciting entertainment and build on what people already love about the event.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue growing it into a more festival-style experience while staying grounded in the mission.
There is a lot of potential, and it is exciting to think about where it can go in the next few years!
I hope everyone can join us on April 15, 2027 – it will be one for the books!
