Every spring in Wilson County, there’s an event that sparks more than conversation — it inspires connection, generosity, and a renewed sense of community. It’s the annual St. Patrick’s Day Gala hosted by Everyone’s Wilson, a coalition of churches, businesses, and nonprofits united by a shared mission: to see every person in the community thrive.
What began as a spirited fundraiser and festive night out has grown into a meaningful local tradition. From elegant entrances and lively conversations to intentional moments of reflection, the gala blends celebration with purpose. Past attendees often describe the evening as one filled with joy, encouragement, and shared vision — a chance to gather and invest in something far bigger than themselves.
At its core, the gala reflects the spirit of Everyone’s Wilson. The organization believes meaningful work and joyful celebration can exist side by side, and that thriving communities are built through collaboration, not isolation. Each year, the gala brings people together around that belief, strengthening relationships and renewing commitment to the work happening throughout the county.
Everyone’s Wilson began with a simple but powerful idea. The organization was formed through a friendship between two pastors who believed unity and reconciliation were essential to the health of their community. What started as a shared conversation soon grew into a county-wide invitation for churches to work together for the common good. In 2018, those leaders engaged community partners to identify local needs and uncovered four key areas of vulnerability: hunger, addiction, safety, and education.
Out of that discovery came a movement dedicated to uniting the church to engage the community so everyone can thrive. Everyone’s Wilson lives out this mission by equipping churches, nonprofits, and businesses to pray together, share resources, serve intentionally, and collaborate strategically. Rather than duplicating efforts, the organization focuses on strengthening existing initiatives and aligning partners toward sustainable, long-term impact.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Daryl Crouch and Director of Operations Melanie Wilson, Everyone’s Wilson has continued to grow in reach and influence. Supported by a broad network of partners, the organization’s work touches nearly every corner of Wilson County — from supporting educators and students to addressing food insecurity and addiction recovery — with a focus on lasting transformation.
The St. Patrick’s Day Gala has become a signature moment in that journey. Held each March, the event gathers community members, local leaders, and supporters for an evening that is festive, welcoming, and deeply meaningful. Guests arrive ready to celebrate, but often leave with something more enduring — a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the mission unfolding in their community.
The choice to host the gala around St. Patrick’s Day carries symbolic meaning. St. Patrick is remembered not only for celebration and tradition, but for bringing hope and transformation to communities in need. That legacy aligns naturally with Everyone’s Wilson’s work. Like the story of St. Patrick, the gala reflects a balance of joy and service, honoring progress while looking ahead to the work still to be done.
Over the years, the gala has helped strengthen relationships across sectors, bringing together churches, nonprofits, and marketplace leaders who may not otherwise find themselves in the same room. It has also raised vital support for Everyone’s Wilson’s ongoing efforts, allowing the organization to continue responding to the evolving needs of Wilson County with unity and purpose.
As the community looks ahead to this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Gala, there is gratitude for how far the organization has come and excitement for what lies ahead. What began as a local conversation has evolved into a shared commitment, now embraced by hundreds of partners and volunteers.
More than a night of celebration, the St. Patrick’s Day Gala stands as an invitation to gather, to give, and to be part of something meaningful. This year’s event takes place on Tuesday, March 17, at 6 p.m. at The Mill in Lebanon. Those interested in attending may reach out to Melanie Wilson at melanie@everyoneswilson.org or visit everyoneswilson.org for details.
We hope that every person who attends this year’s event will leave as a shareholder who sees themselves as capable of making a difference.