Sneaker Ball is Back for Year Two
Tickets are officially on sale for Durham Public Schools Foundation’s second annual Sneaker Ball!
On November 21, we’re bringing our community together for a night of celebration, connection, and purpose, all in support of the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund and mental health and wellness for students and educators across Durham Public Schools.
Last year, our community showed up in a big way. The inaugural Sneaker Ball raised more than $120,000, demonstrating what’s possible when Durham comes together around the well-being of our public school community.
This year, we’re ready to build on that momentum.
Sneaker Ball is moving to a new, larger space, giving us more room to gather, more room to celebrate, and, of course, more room to dance. We also have a bigger fundraising goal as we work to grow the impact of the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund.
A Legacy of Supporting Mental Health and Wellness
Created by Zack and Tracey Hawkins in memory of their son, Zachari, the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund of Durham Public Schools Foundation supports efforts that strengthen mental health and wellness for DPS students and educators.
Sneaker Ball is an opportunity for our community to carry that legacy forward. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, and gift made helps expand the resources and opportunities available to support well-being across Durham Public Schools.
And we believe supporting mental health and wellness is an essential part of building strong public schools, because when students and educators have what they need to thrive, our entire community is stronger.
Join Us November 21
Whether you joined us for the first Sneaker Ball or will be lacing up your sneakers for the first time, we hope you’ll be there. Come dressed to celebrate, wear your favorite sneakers, and join a community committed to showing up for Durham’s students and educators.
Sneaker Ball: November 21, 2026
Attire: Formal + your most stylish sneakers 👟
Venue: Sheraton Imperial Hotel; 4700 Emperor Blvd, Durham, NC 27703
Planning to stay overnight? Reserve your room at the Sherton for the discounted Sneaker Ball rate.
At the Event: Enjoy a cocktail hour with music from DPS students, dinner and drinks, and a live band!
Together, we can make year two even bigger—and continue building a Durham where every student and educator has the support they need to thrive.
💙 Are you a business who wants to support? Consider sponsoring the event.
💛 Can't attend but still want to support mental health and wellbeing in our public schools? Consider a donation to the Zachari Hawkins Memorial fund.
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