The fifth annual fundraising event for Esperanza Immigration Legal Services (EILS) took place on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in the grand salon of the Esperanza Arts Center, offering stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline.

The event highlighted how EILS’s services impact not only individuals but also entire families shaping communities across generations.

Thanks to the support of generous sponsors, EILS has provided hundreds of immigrants with access to citizenship, green card, DACA, and asylum services this year, along with educational resources and referrals for many more. “You are part of our 16-year history of making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve in North Philadelphia’s Hispanic community,” said Anu Thomas, Executive Director of Esperanza Immigration Legal Services (EILS).

One of the evening’s most powerful moments was the story of Neury Miguel, his mother, and his grandmother, three generations transformed by hope. That hope has empowered Neury Miguel to reach his fullest potential as a visual artist, tailor, entrepreneur, and community advocate. For each of them, hope has meant the opportunity to live a life of dignity and purpose.

The EILS Civic Honoree, Judge Steven Morley, graciously and humorously accepted his recognition, expressing how privileged he felt to be part of the evening. He emphasized the invaluable contributions of immigrants and thanked Esperanza for organizing such a meaningful event.

EILS Champion Honoree Ange Branca also shared her journey. Raised in the kitchen alongside her grandmother, Branca’s longing for the flavors of her native Malaysia has fueled her success as an immigrant chef and entrepreneur: “We come from different cultures and speak different languages, but one thing we can all share is food,” she said. “It unites us and helps us build community.”

This year, over 150 attendees including EILS clients, sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and legal professionals joined the celebration. This year, thanks to the collective generosity of sponsors, donors, and guests, the event was once again a resounding success. Including the special “Text to Give” moment, over $93,000 was raised to support vital legal services for immigrants in Philadelphia.

It was, without a doubt, a heartfelt evening dedicated to strengthening families, building hope, and empowering immigrant communities in North Philadelphia.

«The support of leading sponsors such as Palladino, Isbell, Cassaza, and Galfander Berger was essential .»To support this mission, sponsorship opportunities remain open and can be made online at https://www.esperanza.us/eils/ or by mail. Donations will be accepted through June 30, 2025.