Mark your calendars!

We’re thrilled to announce that our next Gala will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the same location. (Event time to be announced.) After such an incredible evening this year, we can’t wait to come together again for another unforgettable night in support of our mission.

The 2025 Gala was truly something special. Your presence helped make the evening a tremendous success and fueled our continued efforts to ensure that everyone who wants to work in competitive, integrated employment has the opportunity to do so.

As we celebrated 75 years of The Arc, we were reminded of the strength and unity of our community. Together, we’ve already made incredible progress—and we know that 2026 will be even bigger and more inspiring.

Interested in becoming a sponsor for the 2026 Gala?
Visit our Sponsorship Page to learn more about opportunities to support the event and make a lasting impact.

A message from our CEO Naveh Eldar

Dear Friends of The Arc Minnesota,

As CEO of The Arc Minnesota, I have the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of inclusion every day. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every person deserves access to the opportunities, experiences, and joys that make life rich and meaningful.

This year’s Gala Fund-a-Need focuses on Accessible Sports and Recreational Equipment, a vital and often overlooked area of inclusion. Recreation is not a luxury; it’s an integral part of a full and healthy life. It’s where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and communities come together. Yet for many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), access to sports and leisure activities is limited by the lack of access to adaptive equipment.

The 2026 Gala Fund-A-Need will support microgrants, small, targeted awards that help cover specific costs, to help remove financial barriers to access. With your support, we can provide adaptive bikes, gaming controllers, or accessible gear that opens doors to movement, creativity, connection, and joy. Together, we can help individuals with IDD experience the thrill of a game, the freedom of a ride, and the simple pleasure of play and leisure.

We are excited to introduce our 2026 Arc Gala co-chairs, Conor and Shamus O’Meara. Conor O’Meara is a spirited radio host living in the Twin Cities, known for his show Conor’s Corner, where he shares his love of sports and life as a person with autism. His bold personality and advocacy have inspired nationally known sports figures to join his show. Shamus O’Meara, Conor’s father, is a respected attorney and mediator who has led landmark cases advancing the rights of people with disabilities. Together, they champion community, inclusion, and the power of finding your voice.

Your generous sponsorship will help us build a more inclusive Minnesota, one where everyone can participate, compete, and build connections. Together, we can ensure that recreation is truly for all.

With gratitude,

Naveh Eldar
CEO, The Arc Minnesota