2026 Golden Doors Gala

You’re invited to Homeward Bound’s first Gala

An elevated evening of connection, celebration and lasting change.

Join Homeward Bound at our first evening Gala to create community and raise funds to prevent and end homelessness in WNC. This event benefiting our homeless and housing services will take place on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, and features a reception, three-course plated meal, live auction, and a theatrical performance.

About the Gala

Across our programs, the need for housing assistance and homeless services continues to grow in our community. Your donation and/or attendance at our Gala is crucial to helping people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness in Buncombe County. The funds raised during this event will help us:

Continue serving and supporting neighbors experiencing homelessness through our AHOPE Day Center and Outreach programs.
Continue operating our Housing programs, which help families and individuals exit homelessness and move into safe, stable, and permanent homes.
Continue providing case management services that offer one-on-one, empathetic support to help clients build stability and self-sufficiency through access to healthcare, food, mental health services, income opportunities, and workforce development.

Gala Schedule

5 pm – 6 pm

Reception: Drinks and appetizers
6 pm – 8 pm:

Dinner and program, including a theatrical performance, live auction, and paddle raise.

About the Name

We chose the name of our gala based on the door within our new logo. The open door and pathway are gold to symbolize the light, warmth, and safety of a home. We invite you to help open new doors and pathways to homes by joining us at this year’s gala.

Theatrical Performance: Between Here and Home

This year, we’re trying something new. The 2026 Golden Doors Gala will feature three live monologues representing different journeys through homelessness. To protect the privacy of the people we serve, the monologues will be performed by local actors, and the stories will incorporate elements from real experiences of Homeward Bound staff.

The purpose of these monologues is to break down stigma and provide an authentic portrayal of the everyday realities faced by some of our neighbors.

The Monologues

Marvin struggles to piece together time and memories while he waits for the bus.
Olivia is reminded of how far she’s come after she runs into an old friend at the store.
Daisy reflects on loss, healing, and finding her voice through art.

Get your tickets today

Tickets: $100

Date: Thursday, September 3, 2026

Time: 5 PM – 8 PM

Location: The Venue, 21 N Market St, Asheville, NC 28801

The Venue, Downtown Asheville

Photo by Rachel McIntosh Photography

About the live auction

All seven exclusive auction packages were generously donated in-kind to help raise funds supporting Homeward Bound’s mission to prevent and end homelessness. Explore each one-of-a-kind package below and discover the incredible experiences made possible by our partners.

APPETIZERS

Fresh Thai Rolls | Fresh Vietnamese Summer Rolls filled with Crisp Vegetables and Fresh Herbs, wrapped in rice paper and served with Sweet Chile Sauce
Vegan, Gluten Free (Contains Soy, Sesame)

Grilled Peaches and Creamy Burrata Bruschetta | Grilled Peaches, Creamy Burrata Cheese, Basil, and Fig Balsamic Reduction on Crostini
Vegetarian (Contains Dairy, Gluten)

Bulgogi Beef Skewers | Korean Beef Bolgogi Skewers served with Kimch Aioli
Gluten Free, Dairy Free (Contains Egg, Soy, Sesame)

FIRST COURSE

End of Summer Salad | Baby Mixed Greens, Sliced Local Apples, Crumbled Goat Cheese, Pepitas and Dried Cherries with a Maple Dijon Dressing
Vegetarian, Gluten Free (Contains Dairy, Egg)

Wine Pairing | 2024 Biltmore Estate Dry Rose

SECOND COURSE

Marry Me Chicken | Seared Boneless/Skinless Chicken Thighs topped with a Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce with Parmesan and Fresh Basil
Gluten Free (Contains Dairy)

Roasted Garlic Smashed Potatoes | Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes with Roasted Garlic and Sour Cream
Vegetarian, Gluten Free (Contains Dairy)

(Vegetarian Option) Roasted Ratatouille over Polenta | Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Eggplant, Bell peppers, Tomatoes and Onions roasted with Olive Oil and Provençal Herbs until sweet and tender, and served over Creamy Goat Cheese Polenta with Fresh Green Beans
Vegetarian, Gluten Free (Contains Dairy)

Grilled Pork Tenderloin | Garlic Rubbed Pork Tenderloin, grilled and sliced served with Chimichurri Sauce
Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Fresh Green Beans | Fresh Green Beans, steamed and tossed with Garlic, Red Onions, Butter, Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper
Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Wine Pairing | 2024 Biltmore Estate Chardonnay

THIRD COURSE (DESSERT)

Triple Chocolate Mousse | Creamy Triple Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse Cups
Gluten Free (Contains Dairy, Nuts)

Wine Pairing | 2023 Biltmore Estate Limited Release Sweet Red Wine