2025 Raise the Region Gala

Friday, October 17, 2025

Hilton McLean Tysons Corner

6:30 - 10:00 pm | 8:30 pm Hybrid Program

Honoring Warren Thompson of Thompson Hospitality with the 2025 Community Leadership Award

Black ⧓ Tie | Cocktail Reception | Seated Dinner | Silent & Live Auctions

Join the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia on Friday, October 17th at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner for the 2025 Raise the Region Gala.

This event attracts hundreds of regional business, philanthropic and community leaders and supports the Community Foundation’s ability to advance equity through philanthropy and community leadership across the region. Held in the fall, it features the presentation of the Community Leadership Award for outstanding service and commitment to Northern Virginia, the longest-standing award of its kind. It includes a one-of-a-kind auction and opportunities to engage and connect with our community.

An unforgettable night building a Northern Virginia that works for everyone.

JOIN US! Sponsorship Package Overview TICKETS & SPONSORSHIPS SUPPORT THE AUCTION

About the 2025 Community Leadership Award Honoree

A pillar of the Gala celebration each year is the Community Leadership Award, presented annually for outstanding community service and dedication to improving the quality of life for all Northern Virginians. This year’s award will be presented to Warren M. Thompson, President & Chairman of Thompson Hospitality.

In addition to being one of the 10 largest food service and facilities management companies in the U.S. Thompson Hospitality owns and operates a portfolio of more than 65 restaurants, across some 17 different brands. From the Company’s founding in 1992 with revenues of $34M, Warren has grown Thompson Hospitality into a one-billion-dollar enterprise operating across 45 states and six countries — all while maintaining a deep commitment to inclusive leadership and opportunity for all.

Warren’s impact extends far beyond business. Through long-standing support for HBCUs, active civic leadership, and a focus on elevating underserved communities, he exemplifies the spirit of community philanthropy. His work has strengthened lives and institutions throughout Northern Virginia, and we are proud to celebrate his lasting legacy of service.

READ WARREN'S FULL BIO

2025 Raise the Region Gala Sponsors

A special thanks to the following supporters helping make this event possible. Join us!

Presenting Sponsor

Thompson Hospitality

Community Leadership Sponsor

John and Nina Toups Charitable Fund

Auction Sponsor

Truist Wealth

Resilience Sponsor

Lou and Wendy Brown

Empowerment Sponsors

Anthony Chang, Silverline Equities
Robert and Pamela Kipps
KME.digital
McGuireWoods LLP

Impact Sponsors

KippsDeSanto & Co.
NOVA Parks
Meera and Shankar Pillai
Amy Wells Mackay, Truist Wealth

Additional Contributions

Interstate Group Holdings, Inc.

Individual tickets are $500. Sponsorships start at $1,250 and include visibility throughout the year and during the event.
TICKETS & SPONSORSHIPS

Questions: Contact Tara Nadel, Chief Marketing Officer, at 703-879-7637 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Tags: