Illumination Gala Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is the Illumination Gala taking place?
    The Illumination Gala will be held at the Raleigh Convention Center which is located at 500 S Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27601

    What time does the Illumination Gala begin?
    The Illumination Gala will begin with cocktails at 6pm and the event will end at approximately 9:30pm.

    Is the llumination Gala indoors?
    Yes, the Illumination Gala will be held indoors.

    Is there parking at the location?
    The Marriott offers complimentary on-site parking.

    Will there be valet parking?
    No, but the hotel has a drop-off area up front.

    Can I book a room at the hotel that night?
    We have a preferred rate for Illumination Gala guests. You can make an individual room reservation at the hotel’s website.

    Is the Marriott wheelchair accessible?
    Yes! For more information about the physical features of the hotel’s accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call the hotel at 919-781-7000. If you have questions about accessible parking options due to mobility challenges, please contact Valerie Padilla at valerie.padilla@shalomraleigh.org

  • What is the dress code?
    It’s a party! Dress is fun, cocktail-style.

    Will there be security on site?
    We are working with private security firms and local law enforcement to ensure the safety of our guests.

    Will there be coat check?
    Yes, you will be able to check your coat.

    What is the policy regarding face coverings for the Illumination Gala?
    We will follow all NCDHHS guidelines pertaining to face coverings. We ask that all guests respect the decisions of others in regards to mask-wearing.

  • Do I need tickets to attend?
    Yes, you must have a ticket to attend. We will not accept walk-ins.

    I bought a ticket for a guest, but my guest can no longer attend. What should I do?
    Please contact Valerie Padilla at valerie.padilla@shalomraleigh.org if you need to make changes to your ticket purchase.

    Can I bring a guest who is not Jewish?
    Yes, the more the merrier!

    Is there a minimum age requirement to attend the Illumination Gala?
    You must be 21 or older to attend the Gala.

    Are my tickets tax-deductible?
    For each individual ticket, $50 is tax deductible. For questions about the tax deductibility of sponsorships, please contact Valerie Padilla at valerie.padilla@shalomraleigh.org.

    Can I volunteer for the Illumination Gala?
    We appreciate your interest in volunteering. Please contact Ilene Mlot at ilene.mlot@shalomraleigh.orgto express your interest.

  • Can I buy reserved seating and donate it? If you would like to purchase and donate reserved seating, please contact Valerie Padilla at valerie.padilla@shalomraleigh.org.

    How can I become an Illumination Gala sponsor?
    Click here to learn more about sponsorship packages and become a sponsor.

    Which payment methods do you accept?
    We accept cash, checks, Mastercard, Visa and American Express.

    Do I have to donate now? Can I donate at the gala?
    There will be many opportunities to donate at the Illumination Gala including a live auction and an opportunity to participate in our fund the mission paddle raise.

    What is a paddle raise?
    A paddle raise is like an auction, but in reverse! The emcee will begin by asking for someone to fund a service with the greatest expenses (example: a social worker’s salary for a year). From there, the emcee asks for donations to fund services at decreasing dollar amounts (examples: Mitzvah Meals for a month, financial aid for five families). When you hear something that you want to fund, raise your paddle high! We will note your donation for our records.