Rob Davis, chairman and CEO of Merck, will be honored at the 28th annual Sparkle of Hope Gala for his leadership and commitment to community service.
The gala, to be held Nov. 14 at the Legacy Castle in Pompton Plains, helps benefit veterans.
Since 1985, Community Hope has been transforming the lives of veterans and their families by providing essential mental health services, transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, rapid re-housing, transportation and workforce development opportunities
The Sparkle of Hope Gala is a signature fundraising event, bringing together leaders in the pharmaceutical and related industries to help raise the funds to advance Community Hope’s mission. Hope Gala has raised over $20 million to support and strengthen diverse communities.
“The Sparkle of Hope Gala draws a who’s who of New Jersey business and community leaders to celebrate the immeasurable impact Community Hope has had across the state,” Brent Saunders, Chairman and CEO of Bausch + Lomb and the Leadership Chair of the Sparkle of Hope Gala, said.
“It’s been an honor to be involved with the organization for 15 years and see firsthand how veterans, their families, and people living with mental illness have benefitted from critical services.”
Under Davis’ leadership, Merck has amplified and accelerated its commitment to social responsibility, positively impacting the health and well-being of communities, small and large.
“I am honored to accept the 2024 Sparkle of Hope Award from Community Hope on behalf of Merck,” he said. “This award reflects our shared values and the tremendous impact we can create when we come together.
“I’m incredibly proud that at Merck, enabling access to health underpins every decision we make, and that’s reflected in our longstanding partnership with Community Hope – an organization admirably dedicated to providing access to housing and support services for veterans and people in need.”
Community Hope CEO Carmine Deo praised Merck and all who contribute to the cause.
“When someone has hope, anything is possible,” she said. “We’ve seen in our world the need for more mental health services and the availability of more special needs affordable housing. Community Hope works hard to provide a safe home and essential services for some of our community’s most vulnerable individuals, but we cannot do that without the help of those in our community.
“We are grateful to those who are supporting and attending the Sparkle of Hope Gala, as this event has a tremendous impact on the lives of those who depend upon Community Hope daily.”
For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit communityhope-nj.org/events/sparkle-of-hope/ or contact Peggy Banko, Development Director, at mbanko@communityhope-nj.org or by phone at 973-463-9600 ext. 303.
