Imagine! Celebration
Each year, the Imagine! Foundation hosts the Imagine! Celebration — an unforgettable evening dedicated to creating a world of opportunity for all abilities. This signature gala brings together community partners, families, donors, and friends for a night of connection, generosity, and joy.
More than a celebration, this event fuels Imagine!’s life-changing work. Funds raised directly support programs that help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live, learn, work, and thrive in inclusive, supportive communities.
The Imagine! Foundation plays a critical role in sustaining this mission — investing in innovation, expanding opportunities, and ensuring Imagine! can respond to community needs with compassion, creativity, and excellence.
Whether you join us as a guest, sponsor, volunteer, or advocate, your involvement helps shape a brighter future for people of all abilities.
We invite you to be part of the magic, the momentum, and the impact.
Our 2026 Event
Imagine! Celebration 2026 – A Night That Raised Over $500,000 for Possibility
On Saturday, February 7, 2026, nearly 400 guests gathered at the Omni Interlocken Resort for the 25th Anniversary Imagine! Celebration—and together, our community raised more than $500,000 to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Boulder County and beyond.
The evening, emceed by broadcaster Jerry Schemmel, honored the extraordinary people and partnerships that power Imagine!’s work. From moving award presentations to powerful personal stories, the Celebration highlighted what’s possible when generosity meets purpose.
This year’s Heart of Imagine! Award was presented to Leona Stoecker, a longtime volunteer, Foundation Board Member, and fierce champion whose dedication has shaped Imagine!’s impact for decades.
Guests enjoyed a Hollywood-inspired evening featuring silent and live auctions, The Best of Imagine! Awards, delightful cuisine, and a shared commitment to strengthening opportunity, independence, and belonging in our community.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors whose leadership helped make the evening possible, including:
Stapp Interstate Toyota;
Because of this incredible community, the impact of Imagine! will continue—through customized supports, innovative programming, and life-changing opportunities for the individuals and families we serve.
If you would like to be part of next year’s Celebration—as a sponsor, donor, volunteer, or guest—we invite you to join us. Together, we are building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Donna & Gerald — Love Wins Award
Donna and Gerald’s story is a powerful reminder that love, connection, and mutual support are at the heart of a meaningful life. Through Imagine!’s programs and the support of a caring community, they have built a strong partnership rooted in respect, joy, and shared purpose. Their journey reflects what’s possible when people are supported to live, love, and grow together.
John — Soaring Spirit Award
John’s story is one of persistence, growth, and resilience. With individualized support from Imagine!’s team, he has developed new skills, gained confidence, and expanded his participation in school and community life. His journey toward adulthood reflects the strength of a soaring spirit—and the impact of believing in what’s possible.
Terri — Rhythm of Resilience Award
Terri’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and self-expression. Through Imagine!’s programs and her passion for music, she has discovered powerful ways to connect, communicate, and grow. As a drummer with Imagine!Nation, Terri’s rhythm lifts those around her and reminds us that resilience can be bold, expressive, and deeply inspiring.
Adeline — Living Her Best Life Award
Adeline’s journey reflects the power of opportunity, encouragement, and self-determination. Through Imagine!’s Next Step Living program, she has built new skills, formed meaningful relationships, and stepped confidently into greater independence. Her story reminds us that when people are empowered and supported, they don’t just grow—they flourish.
Our 2025 Event
The 24th Annual Imagine! Celebration was a record-breaking success! With 371 attendees, we raised over half a million dollars — our most successful event to date! Some highlights of the evening include that we shared a heartwarming story of Jeff and Jordy’s growth towards independence and confidence, our Adult and School Age Center Stage programs were fully funded for a year thanks to 27 wonderful donors, and Kenny’s painting (that he demonstrated live at the event) raised over $2,000. We are beyond grateful for your support in empowering people with disabilities. Thank you for making this an unforgettable night!
