An ocean of community, celebration, and impact filled The Empire Room on Saturday, April 11, as Resource Center hosted its 28th Annual Toast to Life Gala—this year themed “Voyage Beneath the Sea.”
Marked as the organization’s most vibrant and anticipated fundraiser of the year, Toast to Life once again delivered on its promise: an immersive, high-energy experience designed to celebrate life, diversity, and inclusivity while raising critical funds to sustain Resource Center’s essential programs and services. From healthcare and HIV prevention to youth initiatives and advocacy, the evening underscored the real impact behind the celebration.
Guests were transported into a fully realized underwater world, as the venue transformed into a sensory playground filled with curated visuals, culinary experiences, and dynamic entertainment. From the moment attendees arrived, the tone was clear—this was both a celebration and a call to invest in community.
Leading the evening was internationally recognized Canadian drag icon Brooke Lynn Hytes, who served as host and headline performer. Hytes captivated the audience with multiple appearances throughout the night, including a striking Meryl Streep-inspired look and a theatrical Devil Wears Prada-inspired performance that energized the room while helping drive participation during key fundraising moments.
Philanthropy remained at the center of the experience. Through a combination of live and silent auctions—featuring exclusive experiences, art, and luxury items—alongside high-impact giving moments, attendees contributed to a powerful night of fundraising. A standout highlight included a $100,000 matching contribution from community partner The Tosha Miller Group -Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, reinforcing the collective commitment to sustaining the organization’s mission.
The evening also made space to honor those doing the work. Pastor Rachel of Oak Lawn United Methodist Church was recognized with the 2026 LGBTQ Community Award, celebrating her continued leadership and advocacy for the queer community. Pastor Rachel made headlines earlier this year by openly condemning President Donald Trump and Governor Greg Abbott’s attacks on representation in the LGBTQ+ communities and proclaiming the church as a safe space for all.
Adding to the significance of festivities was a major announcement made Monday on April 13th underscoring legacy and impact: Resource Center revealed plans to name its community campus in honor of longtime CEO Cece Cox, who is set to retire later this year after nearly two decades of leadership. The announcement served as both tribute and testament to Cox’s transformative influence—guiding the organization through years of growth, expanded services, and deeper community reach.
Even at her final Toast To Life as the CEO, Cox didn’t hesitate to let the audience know that she’s always willing to fight for her community.
“I remember the AIDS epidemic. I was there. This administration wants to take us back in time and we are not going to let that happen!” – CEO Cece Cox
More than a fundraiser, Toast to Life served as a reminder of what happens when community, intention, and investment align. Through celebration and collective giving, Resource Center continues to build a future rooted in care, access, and belonging—proving that when the community shows up, real impact follows.