Events

Headwaters Relief Organization’s 7th Annual Mardi Gras Gala 2026

A Night of Unity, Compassion, and Hope

In a time when so many communities, locally and globally, are facing uncertainty, fear, and division, the Headwaters Relief Organization Gala was a powerful reminder of what is still possible when people choose to come together.

This year’s gathering was more than an evening of celebration. It was a deliberate act of unity. Along the way, we asked hard questions: Should we even hold a gala when things feel so heavy? Ultimately, we answered YES- because we refuse to let fear or division stop us from doing what we know is right.

At Headwaters, we exist for moments like these. For more than 20 years, we have shown up for communities recovering from disaster, families navigating uncertainty, and neighbors in need, without asking who they are, where they come from, or what they believe. We ask only one question: How can we help? Because compassion is not optional.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, partners, volunteers, board members, and every guest in the room, this evening strengthened our ability to continue that work, supporting families here in Minnesota and standing alongside communities around the world as they rebuild not just homes, but hope.

By attending, donating, bidding, and raising paddles, our supporters sent a powerful message: You are not alone. You matter. We will walk with you.

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors for believing in this mission and making this night possible, and to everyone who chose hope, action, and humanity.

Thank you for standing with Headwaters. Thank you for being Headwaters.