Our 2026 Planting Hope Garden Party Recap: We Raised Over $94,000 For Our Critical Programs and Services!
On Sunday, April 26, at The Museum at Hoppenville in Pennsburg, The Open Link celebrated 51 years of service to the Valley at our 2026 Planting Hope Garden Party! Guests first enjoyed a delicious brunch provided by Tosco's Pizza & Restaurant while listening to the musical accompaniment of local guitarist Rinny Petrillo.
Throughout the event, attendees bid on a fabulous silent auction, featuring over 90 prize packages donated by Valley community members, businesses, and organizations. Two of our board members, Rev. Nick Pence, of Palm Schwenkfelder Church, and Rev. John Buckley, Board President, of Upper Perkiomen Community Church, hosted a rousing Gifts from The Heart live auction, where guests pledged their financial support towards The Open Link's work and mission.
The Open Link then honored Gerry, Carmine, and Bryan Fioriglio of Family Caregivers Network, who received the annual Planting Seeds of Hope Award for their longtime dedication to the organization. Following the award, Marianne Lynch, The Open Link's Executive Director, hosted a Q&A with Sister Mary Scullion, RSM, a Philadelphia-based activist and founder and former president and executive director of Project HOME. Sister Mary thrilled guests with her candor, insight, and engagement, emphasizing the importance of having an “open mind, open heart, and open will” when learning about and helping those in need, as well as how “small steps work” in building resources and creating positive change in local communities.
In total, the Garden Party raised over $94,000 towards The Open Link’s critical programs and services. Thank you to all who attended, bid in our silent and live auctions, donated funds, silent auction items, alcohol, or desserts, volunteered their time and talent, or contributed towards this year's Garden Party!
An additional thank you to Rae Hearts Design & Photography for donating her services and for her beautiful photography!
