The 2025 Hope Gala, held at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, brought together honorees, advocates, and supporters for a night dedicated to one powerful mission: a safer childhood for every child. With a sense of purpose, determination, and compassion filling the room, the event highlighted incredible stories of courage and the impact of a united community.
What Happened
The evening kicked off with an emotional address by NCMEC CEO Michelle DeLaune, who shared the inspiring work done by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). “At NCMEC, we face difficult and sometimes heartbreaking realities,” DeLaune said, acknowledging the hard work of the team at NCMEC. Despite the challenges, she emphasized the unwavering determination and hope that drives the organization.
One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Kuno the K9, a four-legged hero, was recognized as the first-ever honoree of the night. Kuno, who served with the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department in Michigan, was instrumental in locating five missing children during his seven years of service. Kuno, alongside his handler Deputy Eric Calhoun, was honored for his remarkable ability to help bring children home safely. Although Kuno retired in 2024, his legacy continues to inspire.
Who Was Honored
The spotlight then turned to a group of Texas women who turned a simple question, “How can we help?” into a powerful initiative. In 2023, Lindsay Buchholz, Kristina Lackey, Teri Fox, Brittany Goswami, Daisa Hoffman, Karen Quintos, and Tara Termeer launched Saddle Up for Kids, an annual fundraising event for NCMEC to combat human trafficking and child exploitation. Their event quickly became a force for change, and they were honored for their dedication and passion for creating a safer world for children.
Another key moment came when Francesca Mani, who was only 14 when she became a victim of deepfake nude imagery created by a classmate, was honored for her bravery and advocacy. With the support of her mother, Dorota, Francesca took her story to lawmakers, playing a pivotal role in the passing of the Take It Down Act earlier this year, which targets the exploitation of children through generative AI technology.
Career, Legacy, and Case Details
The night’s honorees also included Erika Ramirez and her niece and nephew, Kahmila and Luis Jr. Ramirez, who were abducted from an Arizona playground by their non-custodial parents in 2018. The case, involving charges of sexual exploitation, child abuse, and CSAM, made national headlines, particularly through appearances on “On Patrol: Live” and “America’s Most Wanted”. Thanks to the relentless efforts of Erika, NCMEC, and law enforcement agencies, the children were finally recovered six years later.
Erika, joined by Luis Jr. and Kahmila, was recognized for her incredible courage, perseverance, and unwavering hope. “Luis and Kahmila stand here today as a testament that holding on to hope really does make a difference,” Erika said, expressing her gratitude for the support she received throughout the years-long search for her family.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The 2025 Hope Gala resonated deeply with attendees and the wider public. The event highlighted the power of resilience and showcased the incredible people who dedicate their lives to ensuring children’s safety. Social media platforms lit up with heartfelt tributes to the honorees, with the hashtag #HopeGala2025 spreading widely as people shared their admiration and support for the work NCMEC does.
One social media post read, “A true testament to the strength of our community! These incredible individuals and organizations are making the world a safer place for our children.”
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The NCMEC team is continuing its efforts to combat child exploitation, trafficking, and abductions, with the support of advocates, volunteers, and generous donors. The 2025 Hope Gala serves as a reminder that everyone can make a difference in the fight for children’s safety. The NCMEC team continues to work tirelessly, with their eyes set on expanding awareness, support, and action in protecting children.
The event closed with a heartfelt message from Michelle DeLaune: “Every act of courage, big or small, creates lasting change. Together, we can continue making the world a safer place for every child.”
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
