Date and Time
- Sunday, Oct 19, 2025 6 pm
Location
Whiskey Kitchen
201 W Martin St
Social Media
Details
This October, we invite you to a powerful evening that marks a milestone in our story—10 years since the accident that sparked the vision for NextStep Raleigh, and 7 years of delivering transformative therapy to individuals living with paralysis.
The Stand Together Gala is more than a celebration. It’s a gathering of a community determined to push boundaries, support recovery, and create a future full of possibilities.
What Awaits You
- Five of Raleigh’s top chefs featured in an exclusive culinary showcase
- Handcrafted cocktails from The Whiskey Kitchen Bartenders featuring Tito's Vodka, Sulter's Gin, and Kill Devil Rum
- Stories of resilience and recovery from the NextStep community
- Music and Dancing provided by Epic DJ
Why This Year Matters
This second 2025 Gala isn't a formality—it’s a purposeful return. After last year’s event was rescheduled due to Hurricane Helene, we’re back with clarity, passion, and momentum. We gather not just to remember how far we’ve come, but to recommit to the work ahead.
Since opening in 2018, NextStep Raleigh has helped hundreds of individuals with paralysis pursue recovery, independence, and improved quality of life through cutting-edge, research-backed activity-based training.
Here’s who will be feeding us at this year’s event:
Whiskey Kitchen – Passed Hors d’Oeuvres & Craft Cocktails
Whiskey Kitchen will be setting the tone for the evening with bold, Southern-inspired passed hors d’oeuvres. Known for their inventive approach to comfort food and craft cocktails, they are a cornerstone of Raleigh’s food and drink community.
Coleen Speaks – Hummingbird / PoshNosh Catering
Restaurateur, caterer, and design visionary, Coleen Speaks is the force behind Hummingbird and PoshNosh. With a reputation for elevated Southern cuisine and impeccable presentation, she has long been a leader in Raleigh’s hospitality scene. Expect vibrant, seasonal fare executed with precision.
Sunny Gerhart – St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar / Olivero
A two-time James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Southeast, Sunny Gerhart is celebrated for his personal, soulful cooking. At St. Roch, he channels his New Orleans roots, while Olivero explores his mother's Spanish and coastal flavors. His food tells stories—rooted in heritage, delivered with heart.
Adé Carrena
The reigning Chopped Champion (2025) and Chef of the Year (2023), Adé Carrena is a rising star with national recognition. Known for her fearless flavor combinations and bold technique, she brings a modern, multicultural approach to fine dining. Her station will be a showcase of artistry and innovation.
Saif Rahman – Peregrine
A 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist and former Executive Chef of Vidrio, Saif Rahman now leads the kitchen at Peregrine, where he crafts globally influenced dishes with a strong sense of place. His cooking reflects his Bangladeshi heritage, classical training, and commitment to storytelling through food.
We're still finalizing an exciting dessert feature. Stay tuned for updates on the full culinary experience.
Tickets & Sponsorships Are Now Available
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening.
Whether you’ve supported us from the beginning or are new to the mission—thank you. You make this possible.
