Salisbury, MD — The Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort glowed with purpose and celebration as United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES) hosted its 22nd Annual Holiday Ball, themed Under the Northern Lights, in December. The signature fundraising event brought together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to raise critical funds for local programs and nonprofit partners, generating more than $220,000.
“This night is about more than elegance and celebration,” said Pam Gregory, President and CEO of United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore. “Every dollar raised sends hope into our community—helping neighbors who work hard but still struggle to make ends meet. United is the way we turn generosity into real, lasting impact.”
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, led by Presenting Sponsor Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort, along with Ruby Sponsors Downtown Bridal, Perdue Farms, Pohanka, and TidalHealth, as well as many additional corporate and community partners.
United Way Community Impact Manager Martin Hutchison shared how recent food insecurity efforts revealed both rising demand and the power of partnerships. “When we work together—donors, volunteers, agencies, and businesses—something truly beautiful happens,” Hutchison said. “United is the way we meet uncertainty with hope.”
Event Chairs Diallo and Chalarra Sessoms thanked the volunteer committee, staff, and sponsors who spent months planning the event. “This celebration shows what’s possible when a community rallies around its neighbors,” they said. “The energy in this room translates directly into brighter futures across the Lower Shore.”
Funds raised at the Holiday Ball support United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore’s work with more than 40 nonprofit partners and initiatives such as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) awareness, early childhood literacy through Imagination Library, volunteer engagement through Get Connected, and programs serving families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship.
As the night concluded, guests were reminded that the impact of the Holiday Ball extends far beyond one evening. “When we give what we can and combine our efforts,” Gregory said, “we create a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has a chance to thrive.”
For more information about United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore or how to get involved, visit uwles.org.
About United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore
United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore (UWLES), celebrating 81 years of local service, harnesses the power of the community to advance health, education, and financial stability for all neighbors in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. UWLES and its community partners empower Lower Shore residents by addressing barriers to better health, supporting educational success for learners of all ages, and strengthening economic security for local households. UWLES provides direct services, collaborates with stakeholders, and supports dozens of local nonprofits, impacting one in every three neighbors annually. Through the Get Connected Volunteer Center, UWLES connects more than 200 nonprofits with community members seeking to get involved. Learn more at www.uwles.org, www.ShoreGetConnected.org, Facebook @uwles, Instagram @unitedwayles, or LinkedIn @uwles.
Photo credits: Jim Seip Pro Portraits and Paige Elizabeth Photography
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- The 2025 Holiday Ball Planning Committee, whose time and dedication brought this year’s celebration to life.
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- Holiday Ball Co-Chairs Chalarra and Diallo Sessoms, whose leadership helped make this year’s celebration unforgettable.
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- Ruby sponsor and corporate partner Perdue Farms, helps grow the reach and impact of our mission.
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- Holiday Ball attendees light up the Shore, celebrating community impact and partnership.
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- Perfekt Blend had the crowd glowing on the dance floor with live music under the Northern Lights
