White Rock, B.C. – The annual Peace Arch Hospital Gala, NOLA, returned in style on Saturday, May 3, transforming Centennial Arena into New Orleans for an unforgettable evening. NOLA raised a whopping $1.5+ million toward the Foundation’s Healing Starts Here campaign, supporting a new production kitchen and upgraded food services at Peace Arch Hospital.

This sold-out night of philanthropy, presented by Neil & Lisa Yarmoshuk, was attended by 450 guests and 58 volunteers who helped plan and execute the energetic evening.

Guests sipped New Orleans-inspired cocktails, enjoyed authentic Cajun cuisine and beignets, and went on a hunt for a hidden speakeasy room! Layne, the Auctionista joined us for another incredible evening as MC and auctioneer. Entertainment included a brass band upon entry, and Dueling Piano Kings, an award-winning duo who hosted a fully interactive show.

Mark Woodall and Judy McKague made a generous $250,000 matching gift that kicked off the evening’s fundraising, with other transformational gifts from the Al and Wendy Schill Foundation, who donated $250,000, Vern and Helga Höing, who donated $100,000, and a philanthropic group of anonymous donors.

“Each year, I am amazed at the incredible generosity at our Peace Arch Hospital Gala,” says Stephanie Beck, CEO of Peace Arch Hospital Foundation. “Our community is dedicated to supporting quality healthcare in our community, and we are forever grateful for every donation that enhances the health and wellness of our hospital and community.”

NOLA was organized by a 17-person volunteer committee led by committee chair, Erin Anderson of KA Creative, and took 11 months to plan. Lead sponsors included Neil and Lisa Yarmoshuk as Presenting Sponsor, Clover Towing, DMCL, EllisDon, Isle of Mann, and Lark Group as Gold Sponsors, Peace Arch News as our long-standing Media Sponsors, Cara Interiors as Entertainment Sponsor, as well as many other generous local businesses.

To view the Gala 2025 Gallery, click here!