The Hession Foundation is proud to present its inaugural gala, Unmasking Hope: A Masquerade Gala, an elegant evening where community, generosity, and hope come together to make a lasting impact.
On Friday, October 30, 2026, join fellow business leaders, community partners, and supporters at the Red Tail Lodge in Vernon, New Jersey, for an inspiring evening benefiting the Hession Foundation’s mission to expand access to prevention, mental wellness, and youth initiatives throughout the communities we serve.
The Evening at a Glance
Friday, October 30, 2026
Red Tail Lodge | Vernon, New Jersey
Cocktail Reception Begins at 6:30pm
Formal Attire | Masquerade Masks Encouraged
Guests will enjoy an elegant cocktail reception, a chef-inspired dinner, live entertainment and dancing, a curated silent auction, and the recognition of our 2026 Honoree, Chester A. Patterson, whose leadership and commitment to our community embody the spirit of the Hession Foundation.
Meet Our Honoree
Chester Patterson is the Chief Revenue Officer and Founding Partner of Boulder Risk Associates, Inc. Chester’s true legacy is defined by his dedication to service, mentorship, and his genuine joy in helping others. Celebrating nine years of sobriety, he channels his personal journey into a powerful mission of hope, providing unwavering guidance and actionable support to individuals navigating recovery from drug and alcohol abuse.
Mr. Patterson bridges this passion for personal growth with his lifelong love for sports, working tirelessly to expand mental health resources and development opportunities for the next generation. As an avid hockey player and amateur golfer—highlighted by his victories in the 2024 NJSGA Four-Ball Championship and the 2024 MGA Mid-Amateur Championship—he uses his athletic platform to drive meaningful philanthropic impact. He proudly serves as a Board Member for The Generation Next Project, which utilizes golf to mentor youth and improve youth mental health, and lends his strategic leadership to the NJ Golf Foundation Advisory Board, The Hession Foundation Golf Committee, and the American Cancer Society Golf Committee.
Mr. Patterson’s life and career are a testament to his resilience, discipline, and community stewardship. His open-hearted commitment to uplifting others on their journeys toward health, healing, and sobriety serves as an inspiration to colleagues and competitors alike.
As the Foundation’s first gala, Unmasking Hope represents more than a single evening; it marks the beginning of what we hope will become a lasting tradition of bringing our community together to create meaningful change. We hope you can join us.
Purchase Tables & Sponsorships