November 18, 2025 – HRA18
The 2025 Beauty for Ashes Luncheon marked a powerful moment of unity, reflection, and renewed commitment for the Holocaust Remembrance Association. This year’s gathering exceeded expectations, bringing together community members, educators, faith leaders, and supporters who share a deep desire to advance remembrance, healing, and moral courage.
From the opening moments, the room reflected a spirit of purpose. Attendees engaged in thoughtful conversations, connected with HRA18’s mission, and demonstrated a growing regional commitment to standing against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. The energy throughout the event affirmed how essential this work is—and how strong our community truly is when we come together.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood, the Presenting Sponsor of both the luncheon and the upcoming March of Remembrance on January 25, 2026. Their leadership and partnership strengthen every dimension of our mission. As CEO John Corbeil shared:
“HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood is proud to serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the Beauty for Ashes Luncheon. We support the vital work of the Holocaust Remembrance Association and the Garden of Hope, whose mission of remembrance, healing, and education strengthens the heart of our community.”
The luncheon featured compelling insights from international speaker and educator Dr. Susanna Kokkonen, who emphasized the urgent moral responsibility of remembrance and the power of community engagement:
“Remembering the past is active, moral work. When communities commit to showing up, learning, and standing together, we strengthen the future.”
Her message resonated deeply with guests, reinforcing the importance of education, dialogue, and standing united in the face of rising antisemitism worldwide.
This year’s luncheon represents a defining moment for HRA18, showcasing the widespread desire for deeper Holocaust education, meaningful remembrance, and transformational experiences such as the Holocaust Garden of Hope. The strong attendance, increased volunteer interest, and overwhelming support demonstrated that our community’s commitment is not only growing—it is accelerating.
The momentum from these gatherings is already shaping our next chapter, including preparations for the international March of Remembrance, part of the global March of Life movement uniting more than 20 nations and 400 cities. Tens of thousands worldwide march each year to honor the victims and survivors of the Shoah, stand publicly against antisemitism, and strengthen the bonds of reconciliation. We are honored to bring this movement to our region once again on January 25, 2026, opening International Holocaust Remembrance Week at the Holocaust Garden of Hope.
To everyone who attended, volunteered, partnered, sponsored, or helped bring this event to life—thank you. Your support fuels our mission and ensures that remembrance remains a living, active force in our community.
We invite you to relive the moments from this inspiring day.
Please enjoy the event photos linked HERE!
The Holocaust Remembrance Association exists to remember, reconcile, and take a stand against antisemitism in all its forms.
