The Merakey Foundation will host its annual Leading the Way Awards Gala on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at The Drexelbrook in Drexel Hill, PA. With a Step Into Tomorrow theme, Merakey employees, sponsors, and donors will come together to celebrate Merakey’s work and mission.
Liz Greco-Rocks is this year’s Leading the Way Award Recipient. The Leading the Way Award is given each year to an individual that has made a significant impact on bringing awareness to the obstacles facing vulnerable communities in our region. Liz Greco-Rocks is a founding member of the Merakey Foundation’s board of directors. Liz has been a true champion of Merakey’s work for over 25 years. Liz’s work – both personally and professionally – supports the believe that everyone can make a difference in the lives of others.
Kelli Ziomek is the 2025 Fran and John Egan Courage Award Recipient. This award honors those who exhibit compassion, courage, resiliency, creativity, and the embodiment of the Merakey mission. Kelli serves as the Community-Based Programs Director in Philadelphia, overseeing both the Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) and Blended Case Management (BCM) programs. Kelli has dedicated two decades to Merakey’s mission—making a lasting difference in the lives of the people we serve.
Donna and Michael Pacifico serve as this year’s Honorary Gala Chairs. The Pacifico Family have been consistent supporters of the Merakey Foundation since inception. A spectacular evening with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dessert stations, a silent auction, raffles, and live music, it promises to be a wonderful celebration.
As the largest fundraiser of the year for the Merakey Foundation, proceeds directly support a variety of Merakey programs.
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Title Sponsor
Life Tree Pharmacy
Platinum Sponsors
Independence Blue Cross
Kathy & Joe Martz
Karen & Michael Mitchell