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MAC Foundation Annual Fundraiser
Gratitude Gala & Awards 2026
The Child Within: Dream. Dare. Do.
Gratitude Gala 2026
An evening of celebration, recognition, and purpose
Join us for the Gratitude Gala & Awards — an inspiring evening that honoring the individuals, businesses, and organizations that uplift the MAC Chamber and MAC Foundation through leadership, mentorship, service, and community support.
Guests will enjoy a night of impact and purpose as we award 20 scholarships to outstanding MAC Scholars and celebrate those building a vibrant, inclusive business community.
Funds raised through the Gratitude Gala help sustain programs that connect, empower, and elevate underrepresented entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, students, and families across our community.
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The Evening's Journey
Dream. Dare. Do.
This evening is a bridge between the dreams of our Rising CEOs and the reality of a thriving Nebraska economy.
Dream
Dare
Do
Honorary Co-Chairs
Terri Sanders
Honorary Co-Chair
Bio
Terri Sanders
As CEO of the Omaha Star Institute since June 2023 and Publisher of the Omaha Star Newspaper for over five years, I have focused on amplifying diverse voices and fostering community growth through impactful storytelling, public relations, and event management. With a certification in fundraising management, our team has successfully led initiatives that secure vital resources to support programs reflective of the community’s strengths.
The Omaha Star Institute strives to preserve and modernize the legacy of the Omaha Star while addressing contemporary challenges through innovative strategies. By collaborating with community partners we implement engagement-driven projects that build connections and empower collective growth, furthering our mission to serve as a trusted voice for the communities we represent.
Gonael and Enyo Gnininvi
Honorary Co-Chairs
Bio
Folly Gnininvi
Folly Gnininvi is a Technical Operations Engineer at Cox. Beyond his professional expertise, Folly finds joy in immersing himself in literature, and when he's not engrossed in a good read, Folly cherishes the moments spent with his loved ones, prioritizing quality time with his family. Serving as an ID&E Culture Program Manager at Cox, he passionately works to foster a culture of unity and acceptance across the company. Folly's dedication to his work, love for literature, commitment to family, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion truly define him as a multifaceted individual making a positive impact in both his professional and personal spheres.
Mariette Chizoma Achigbu
Honorary Co-Chair
Bio
Mariette Chizoma Achigbu
With 42 years of legal experience, Mariette Chizoma Achigbu has dedicated her life to being a voice for the vulnerable. As the founder of the Law Office of Mariette Achigbu in Omaha, Nebraska, she specializes in juvenile and probate law—a practice born from her deep-seated devotion to children’s rights and the strengthening of families. A graduate of the University of Nigeria and Creighton University School of Law, Mariette has spent decades navigating the legal system with a "never give up" spirit, ensuring that every child she represents has a fair path forward.
Leadership & Service: Mariette’s commitment to the next generation extends far beyond the courtroom. This year, she is honored to serve as the Co-Chair for the 2026 MAC Foundation Gratitude Gala. This year's theme, "The Child Within: Dream, Dare, Do," resonates deeply with her professional mission. She believes that by nurturing the dreams of our youth and advocating for their potential, we empower them to do great things. Her passion for this work is further reflected in her service on the MAC Foundation Scholarship Committee, where she helps turn educational dreams into reality for deserving students.
Faith & Heritage: Originally from Nigeria, Mariette brings a rich cultural perspective and a global heart to her community leadership. Her life and work are firmly anchored in her strong Catholic faith and her love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, who is her daily source of strength and peace. She views her legal practice and her volunteer efforts as a calling to serve others with love, integrity and purpose
Family: Mariette is married to Dr. Bennett Achigbu and is the mother of two. She is especially grateful to God for her vocation as wife and mother. Her firsthand experience as a parent fuel her advocacy, driving her to strive to build a world where every child is encouraged to dream big, dare to lead, and do the extraordinary.
"Devoted to justice, anchored in faith, and committed to helping every child dream, dare, and do."
A Culinary Connection
Innovation and Heritage on the Menu
Your Support, Their Future
Invest in the next generation of changemakers
The Gratitude Gala is our fundraising event that supports our programs. Every sponsorship, donation, auction contribution, and ticket purchased helps the MAC Foundation to continue creating access, opportunity, and support for underrepresented entrepreneurs, students, and emerging leaders. Your partnership helps fund transformative programs such as Suit Up, Rising CEOs, MAC Scholarships, MAC Xcelerator, Umoja Forum, and other essential MAC Foundation initiatives that provide mentorship, education, access to resources, and opportunities for growth. By supporting the Gratitude Gala, you are investing in a stronger, inclusive, and economically empowered community. Together, we celebrate excellence, honor leadership, and open doors for the next generation of changemakers.
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Future Makers Campaign · Holiday Toy Drive
1,000 Toys. 1,000 Dreams.
Unlimited Futures.
Our holiday toy drive leads directly into the Gratitude Gala — every gift collected and milestone reached takes center stage in our welcome display and themed tablescapes on the night of the event, a vivid visual testament to our collective community strength.
Together, we aren't just giving toys — we are investing in the spark that lights up a child's tomorrow.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support the 2026 Gratitude Gala as a Sponsor
Sponsoring the 2026 Gratitude Gala is a meaningful way to support our fundraising event and help advance the programs that serve entrepreneurs, students, and community members throughout the year. Click the button below to become an event sponsor. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact MAC Foundation, Inc. at [email protected].
- Premium branding on event materials
- Employee engagement opportunities (award presentations, volunteering, etc.)
- Media mentions in press releases and social media
- Name on six (06) MAC Foundation Scholarship Awards
- Full page ad in digital program - 5.5" wide x 8.5" deep
- Reserved table of 10 with VIP seating
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
- Midlands African Chamber, Inc’s website listing with logo
- Employee engagement opportunities
- Logo placement on event materials and digital marketing
- Media mentions in press releases and social media
- 1/2 page ad in digital program - 5.5" wide x 4.25" deep
- Table for 10 at Gratitude Gala
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
- MAC Foundation, Inc’s website listing with logo
- Logo placement on event materials and digital marketing
- Employee engagement opportunities (volunteering, etc.)
- 1/2 page ad in digital program - 5.5" wide x 4.25" deep
- Table for 10 at Gratitude Gala
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
- Midlands African Chamber, Inc’s website listing with logo
- Bronze Sponsor for Gratitude Gala
- Logo placement on event materials and digital marketing
- Employee engagement opportunities (volunteers)
- 1/4 page ad in digital program - 2.75" wide x 4.25" deep
- 6 registrations Gratitude Gala
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
- Midlands African Chamber, Inc’s website listing with logo
- Logo placement on event materials and digital marketing
- Employee engagement opportunities (volunteers)
- Premium seating for 10 for Gratitude Gala
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
- Midlands African Chamber, Inc’s website listing with logo
- Premium Seating for 10 people at the Gratitude Gala
- Branded table tent with your company name/logo displayed on your sponsored table
Make a direct impact by investing in the future of a rising leader.
Your sponsorship includes:
- $1,000 directly awarded as a scholarship to a deserving recipient
- $200 allocated to support scholarship program administration
- Recognition from the podium during the Gratitude Gala
- Company name featured on the official scholarship certificate.
Support education. Empower dreams.
Beverage Sponsor – $2,500
- Exclusive branding on the beverage station
- Recognition as the official Beverage Sponsor during the Gratitude Gala
- Company logo prominently displayed on beverage table signage
Auctions Sponsor – $1,000
- Recognition as the official Auctions Sponsor
- Company logo featured on all auction-related signage at the event
Support Our Mission
Donate Auction Items & Services
Support the gratitude gala by donating auction items, goods, or services that help us raise funds for mac foundation programs in any of the following categories:
- Travel & Experiences: Luxury getaways, staycations, or flight vouchers.
- Culinary: Private dining, catering packages, or fine wines.
- Wellness & Lifestyle: Spa packages, health retreats, or designer goods.
- Professional Development: Executive coaching, business services, or corporate consulting packages.
Support our Mission
By supporting MAC Foundation, you are investing in inclusive entrepreneurship, education, leadership development, and economic growth. Your contribution helps us provide programs, mentorship, scholarships, training, and opportunities that empower underrepresented communities and build a stronger future.
Secure Tickets Today!
Tickets On Sale Now
Don’t miss out! Tickets for the Gratitude Gala & Awards are now available. Secure your spot today and Join us for the Gratitude Gala & Awards — an inspiring evening that honors the individuals, businesses, and organizations that uplift the MAC Chamber and MAC Foundation through leadership, mentorship, service, and community support.