Where Hope Takes Root: An American Story

Date and Time

• Friday, Sep 18, 2026  6:30pm - 8pm

Location

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Details

Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating courage, community, and the power of welcome. Where Hope Takes Root: An American Story brings together film, storytelling, and voices from across Virginia to highlight the journeys of refugees who now call the Commonwealth their home.

The program opens with a community welcome from the Master of Ceremonies before moving into a special film showcase featuring stories of resilience and belonging. Following the screening, audience members will hear directly from participants during a live Q&A.

We’ll also highlight the impact of local service through a volunteer spotlight honoring an IRC Charlottesville volunteer whose dedication of over 25 years of volunteer service strengthens our community. The program continues with a keynote address from Khizr Khan, whose words and advocacy have moved audiences across the nation.

The program concludes with reflections from Justin Gandy, Executive Director of IRC Virginia, and a final thankyou to all who make this work possible.

Following the evening’s program, we will host a reception for Full Admission ticketholders. This reception will include complimentary hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and the chance to build connections with other guests seeking to reclaim what it is to be American in an age of anti-immigrant rhetoric.

This event is ticketed with limited seats, so please purchase yours today! Join us for an opportunity to listen, learn, and celebrate the diverse stories that enrich our Commonwealth.