"Light the Path - No One Walks Alone" March 7, 2026

2026 VCTF Gala
Light the Path: No One Walks Alone

On Saturday, March 7, 2026 • Kalahari Resort – Wisconsin Dells

Light the Path is more than a theme — it is a promise.
A promise that no veteran, no survivor, and no family will ever have to navigate hardship alone. This year’s Gala brings together voices whose courage, advocacy, and leadership illuminate the challenges and victories within the veteran community.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of purpose, connection, and celebration.

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERS

SHANNON HOUGH — Founder, Shield of Sisters
Survivor • Advocate • Truth Teller • Builder of Brave Spaces
Shannon Hough transformed her own experience as a survivor of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) into a national movement of healing and connection. Through Shield of Sisters, she built a community where survivors can finally exhale — a place where women are believed, supported, and surrounded by others who understand the journey.

Shannon speaks with honesty, courage, and a fire that ignites the room. She reminds us that:
• Healing is possible
• Truth matters
• Silence is not protection — connection is

Shannon embodies the heart of Light the Path – No One Walks Alone. She is not just a guest — she is a truth teller who lights the path for others to follow.

TRAVIS WEST — Veteran & Founding Partner, West & Dunn
Legal Advocate • Champion for Justice

Travis West, has spent years fighting for veterans who were denied benefits, dismissed by systems, or left to navigate complex legal barriers alone. His work has restored dignity, stability, and hope to countless service members across Wisconsin and beyond.
He represents the strength of partnership — the belief that when expertise, compassion, and purpose come together, barriers fall and veterans rise.

Travis is not just a legal expert — he is a protector of those who protected us.

JAMES MERCADO — President, ProVisor
Business Leader • Community Connector • Advocate for Veteran Stability

James Mercado leads ProVisor with integrity, collaboration, and a deep respect for service. For years, ProVisor has quietly supported veterans through financial education, coaching, and long term planning — helping many build stronger foundations and even purchase homes.

James embodies what it means to walk beside, not ahead.
His presence reinforces the truth that no single organization can do this work alone.

WHY THIS NIGHT MATTERS
Because every veteran’s path is different — but no one should walk it alone.
Because community changes everything.
Because when people step forward, healing begins.
Because rural veterans deserve stability, dignity, and connection.

This Gala is where stories become sparks, and sparks become change.

TICKETS & TABLES

All tickets and table sponsorships must be purchased through our official Zeffy registration portal:

👉 https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-2026-vctf-gala-light-the-path-no-one-walks-alone

General Admission
• Early Bird: $125 (until Feb 4, 2026)
• Standard: $140

VIP Admission
• Early Bird: $150 (until Feb 4, 2026)
• Standard: $165
Includes early entry at 4:30 PM and access to the VIP Reception.

Table Sponsorships
Each table includes:
• 8 VIP Tickets
• Reserved seating
• Recognition in the Gala Program
• Recognition on the VCTF Website
• Flight Bag Insert Opportunity (310 items)
Table Levels: Constellation • Legacy • Pathfinder • Beacon • Horizon • Lantern

See information in the discussion feed or ticket website for more information:
👉 https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/the-2026-vctf-gala-light-the-path-no-one-walks-alone

EVENT SCHEDULE
• VIP Reception: 4:30 PM
• Welcome Reception: 5:00–6:00 PM
• Main Program: 6:00 PM
• Dinner, Speakers, Auction & Dancing until 10:00 PM

DRESS CODE
Formal / Gala Attire
Military dress uniforms welcome
Business dress
We want you here, so come out and enjoy the company and fun!

Stay at the Kalahari Resort – Wisconsin Dells
Your Gala experience, all under one roof.

Make the most of your Gala weekend by staying right at the Kalahari Resort, the host venue for the 2026 VCTF Gala. Guests enjoy convenience, comfort, and access to all resort amenities — including Wisconsin’s largest indoor waterpark.

Kalahari Resort Information
• Address: 1305 Kalahari Dr, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
• Booking Website: https://book.passkey.com/e/51186445

Room Block Details
• The VCTF Gala room blocks are open .
• Guests must mention the VCTF Gala rate when booking.
• Rooms booked after Feb 4, 2026 are not guaranteed, but may still be available depending on occupancy.

JOIN US & LIGHT THE PATH
Every ticket purchased supports veterans and families across rural communities.
Every seat filled strengthens the mission.
Every person in the room helps ensure No One Walks Alone.