Meet our Keynote Speaker
Dorris Walker-Taylor is no stranger to adversity.
From the time she was a little girl, Dorris endured unspeakable trauma and suffering, ultimately falling into addiction and prostitution that would take so long to overcome. Through every storm she weathered she always had one promise to lean on: HOPE.
Now freed from the bondage, Dorris is using the lessons she learned through her own struggles to offer a beacon of hope for others in circumstances where hope is hard to find.
As our keynote speaker for the Love and Light Gala, Dorris brings not only her incredible personal journey but also a wealth of experience in empowering survivors and advocating for change. Committed to securing sustainable resources for her community, she seamlessly balances her responsibilities. Dorris’s ongoing pursuit of personal growth reflects her unwavering dedication to becoming the best version of herself. Join us at the Gala to be inspired by Dorris's story of resilience, empowerment, and hope.
Enter for a chance to win a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted motorcycle while supporting a life-changing cause! This raffle raises funds for women who have survived trafficking!
Join Us for an Evening of Hope and Healing at the Love & Light Gala
The Love & Light Gala is an elegant and meaningful evening dedicated to supporting and celebrating the mission of Magdalene House. This annual event brings together community leaders, advocates, and generous supporters who share a passion for empowering survivors of sex trafficking. Held in the beautiful Hotel Van Zandt, the gala will feature a gourmet dinner, live music, paddles up, and heartwarming stories from survivors who have found hope and healing through our programs.
The gala is not just a celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the transformative work being done at Magdalene House. Our Love & Light Gala is a time for us to honor the courageous women who have reclaimed their lives from trauma and exploitation. With the love and support of our community, we strive to provide a sanctuary where survivors can rebuild, heal, and discover their inner strength.
All proceeds from the event will directly support our programs, including mental health services, professional development, and safe housing. Your participation will help us expand our reach, ensuring that more women have the resources they need to live independently and pursue their dreams.
Come join us for a night filled with love, hope, and the promise of a brighter future. Your presence at the Love & Light Gala will help shine a light in the darkest places, one woman at a time.
Join Aces Jiu Jitsu and their award-winning team for an empowering self-defense workshop designed to help you build confidence, awareness, and real-world skills to protect yourself. This hands-on session will teach you practical techniques for defending against threats, improving situational awareness, and using your body's natural strengths to stay safe in any situation. Ages 12 and over welcome!
No experience? No problem! This workshop is open to all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your self-defense skills, you’ll leave feeling stronger, more prepared, and more empowered.
All proceeds go directly to Magdalene House Austin, helping us provide safe housing, therapy, and life-changing support to survivors of trafficking. By joining us, you're not just learning how to protect yourself—you’re also standing up for women reclaiming their independence and security.
Sign up today and take the first step toward strength, safety, and empowerment! 💪🏽
