Senior Services of Alexandria’s 2026 Annual Gala: “A Night of Celebration”
By Mary Lee Anderson, Executive Director, Senior Services of Alexandria
Alexandria, VA – Senior Services of Alexandria is delighted to announce its 2026 Annual Gala on Saturday, March 21, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Westin Alexandria Old Town. We look forward to an unforgettable evening as city officials, community partners, and supporters from across the region come together once again to celebrate SSA’s mission and the remarkable impact we continue to have on the lives of older adults.
This year’s Gala will feature an elegant dinner, lively entertainment, a dynamic raffle, and a beautifully curated silent auction, all in support of the essential programs that help Alexandria seniors thrive.
A highlight of the evening will be a special tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose leadership, service, and compassion have strengthened our community. This year’s Gala honorees are: Community Leadership Award, Allen Lomax and Donna Shaw; Community Service Award, Deacon Albert and Beverly Anderson; and Community Spirt Award, Gayle Reuter.
Allen Lomax
Community Leadership Award
Leadership is defined by the lives we improve and the systems we strengthen, and Allen has spent his life doing both. Following a distinguished 30-year career in federal service, he has dedicated his retirement to the health and well-being of our city. From evaluating national public health preparedness at the U.S. Government Accountability Office to chairing the Partnership for a Healthier Alexandria and the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia, Allen has always worked toward the greater good. It is a privilege to recognize a man whose professional expertise and deep compassion have created a safer, more resilient community for all residents.
Donna Shaw
Community Leadership Award
Inspired by a lifelong commitment to kindness and service, Donna has dedicated her professional career and personal time to enhancing the lives of others. During her 18 years as Administrator of Woodbine Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, her visionary leadership earned national recognition and transformed the facility into a model of excellence for skilled nursing and memory care. Beyond her professional achievements, Donna has been a steadfast advocate for Senior Services of Alexandria, serving on our board and personally volunteering alongside her husband, Michael. She was also instrumental in the creation of SSA’s Caring Connections program, a vital initiative that ensures seniors transitioning home from medical care receive the support and nourishment they need. We are privileged to honor Donna for her compassionate heart and her unwavering dedication to the dignity and health of Alexandria’s seniors.
Deacon Albert Anderson, Jr. and Beverly Anderson
Community Services Award
For over three decades, the Andersons have served as a cornerstone of the Alexandria community, driven by a profound commitment to social justice and the sanctity of life. Their partnership is a testament to the power of faith in action, from Beverly’s leadership in organizing food and clothing distributions for families in need to Deacon Al’s dedicated ministry and advocacy on the Advisory Council on Racism. Together, they have spent decades ensuring that our most vulnerable neighbors are supported through critical rental assistance, spiritual guidance, and unwavering compassion. Their lifetime of service was recently recognized by the Holy See with the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal, the highest honor bestowed upon the laity by the Pope. We are privileged to celebrate a couple whose quiet strength and tireless devotion have touched so many lives in our city.
Gayle Reuter
Community Spirit Award
Since moving to Alexandria in 1983, Gayle has become the heartbeat of the Del Ray community, serving nearly 35 years on the board of the Del Ray Business Association and founding cherished traditions like the Del Ray Halloween Parade and Art on the Avenue. Her life has been defined by a profound commitment to the people of this city, from her decades of support for vital nonprofits like ALIVE! to her professional career in public service within the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office and the halls of Congress. Gayle’s recognition as a Living Legend of Alexandria is a testament to her belief that a community is built through tireless engagement and an open heart. Even as she enters retirement, she continues to look for new ways to serve, including her recent dedication to our Meals on Wheels program. We are honored to celebrate Gayle for her boundless energy and her unwavering devotion to our city.
SSA is grateful for the ongoing support of our sponsors, partners, and attendees who help make this celebration possible. A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Alexandria Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center and Woodbine Rehabilitation & Health Center. Your generosity fuels the programs that provide meals, companionship, education, and trusted resources to seniors throughout Alexandria.
If you would like to be a sponsor and/or purchase a ticket to the Gala, go to www.seniorservicesalex.org/gala. We look forward to celebrating with you on a night that promises to be inspiring, joyful, and truly one to remember.
Senior Services of Alexandria and At Home in Alexandria Host February 18 Speaker Series
Exploring Horizons: Senior Education and Travel
Senior Services of Alexandria and At Home in Alexandria are hosting a Speaker Series event, Exploring Horizons: Senior Education and Travel, on Wednesday, February 18, at Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke Street, 10–11:30 a.m. This event will feature expert speakers talking about continuing education opportunities for older adults in the Washington DC region, as well as traveling – both locally and beyond. This event is free, but we ask you to register by emailing [email protected], or call 703-836-4414, ext. 110. We hope you will join us for this informative and fun event!
