At Chartway Federal Credit Union, giving back has always been core to its culture. Inspired by the industry’s “People Helping People” philosophy, the credit union’s We Promise Foundation raised $526,900 during its 11th Annual Diamonds in the Sky Gala to make dreams come true for children battling life-threatening illnesses in its communities.

Emceed by WAVY TV’s Kerri Furey, the black-tie gala held at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel featured a silent auction, an elegant dinner, and live entertainment by The Right On Band. Professional auctioneer Kyle Hause also treated 400 guests to a rousing live auction, featuring exclusive trips, an Eagles guitar, a Seadoo GTI 130 Jetski, and more. The silent auction gave guests the chance to bid on nearly 100 unique items, including a framed Star Wars poster autographed by the cast, VIP tickets to a Brad Paisley concert, a Venetti ring, an Apple TV, pottery pieces made by We Promise children, and much more.

Also joining the foundation for the event was LPGA player Brooke Pancake, well-renowned Right On Band, and a dozen We Promise heroes - children whose dreams came true thanks to funds from We Promise.

“What an incredible couple of days with We Promise. Thank you all so much for everything and allowing me to play a very small part of an amazing cause,” said professional golfer, Brooke Pancake. “I got to meet some true heroes – many children with very serious illnesses and facing tremendous hardships. These children touched me deeply with their contagious smiles and warm hugs!”

All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit children battling life-threatening illnesses. Since launching the foundation, Chartway FCU’s We Promise Foundation has raised nearly $9,000,000.

400 gala guests boogied in the ballroom to the sounds of The Right On Band – a 10-piece show band who has performed for each of the last three United States Presidents, the US Congress inside The White House, and other celebrities, dignitaries and heads of state around the world.

WAVY TV’s Kerri Furey emceed the 11th Annual Diamonds in the Sky Gala alongside several of the We Promise heroes like 3-year-old Gideon who inspired guests with his story of hardship and hope.

The 11th Annual Diamonds in the Sky Gala featured several buzzworthy moments, including the chance to meet a "live" mermaid as these We Promise heroes did, bubbles in the ballroom, a space for the We Promise heroes to create special art pieces, a photo booth, and mobile bidding for the silent auction.

Held at the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the 11th Annual Diamonds in the Sky Gala – hosted by Chartway Federal Credit Union’s We Promise Foundation – raised $526,900 to make dreams come true for children battling life-threatening illnesses. Since the foundation first began hosting charitable events, it has raised nearly $9,000,000.

From left to right: Wayne Foshay, 1st vice chairman, CFCU board; Bob Cook, CFCU board; Bob Holmes, chairman, CFCU board; Brian Schools, president & CEO, CFCU; Heidi Worker, 1st vice chairman, WPF board; George Sauer, 2nd vice chairman, CFCU board; Brooke Pancake, LPGA golfer; Lou Gull, secretary, CFCU board; Judy Sparrow, CFCU board; Rene Bollinger, WPF board; Theresa Delp, secretary/treasurer, WPF board; Phil Richards, chairman, WPF board; Dallas England, CFCU board emeritus; Melvin Mizelle, treasurer, CFCU board.