Mark your calendars. On Saturday, September 26, 2026, Baker Industries returns to the Merion Cricket Club for our 45th Annual Gala and Silent Auction — an evening celebrating the power of work and the community that makes it possible.
This year’s theme, “A Blueprint for Excellence,” honors Carter Mechanical, Inc. and Andrew Carter. For a decade, Andrew has stood behind Baker’s mission — as a longtime sponsor, as one of the major contributors to the Justin Baker Endowment Fund, and as a steady champion of the belief that real work for real pay changes lives. When the Endowment reached its $2.5 million goal two years ahead of schedule, it was because of supporters like Andrew, whose generosity now funds programs like our ServSafe certification initiative and sustains pathways to permanent employment for adults facing barriers to work.
For 45 years, the Gala has been more than a fundraiser. It’s a room full of people who believe in second chances — donors, business partners, board members, and friends who have helped Baker place graduates into permanent employment year after year. Last year alone, 73 Baker graduates transitioned into permanent jobs across the region. Evenings like this one make that possible.
Scenes from the 44th Annual Gala, September 2025
Join Us
Individual tickets are $225, with Young Friends tickets available at $100 for guests under 35.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at every level, from Bronze ($1,000) to Presenting Sponsor ($10,000), with benefits including VIP tables, podium recognition, and visibility across our event website and social media. If your company is looking for a meaningful way to stand with the fair-chance workforce movement, there’s no better room to be in.
Tickets and sponsorships are available now. Click below to purchase tickets, review sponsorship opportunities, and learn more about the evening. Save the date, spread the word, and plan to join us for a night worth celebrating.
Our silent auction is a Gala tradition in its own right. Each year the tables fill with things you won’t find anywhere else — unique golf experiences, one-of-a-kind gifts and jewelry, and signed sports memorabilia — and every winning bid goes straight to work supporting our mission. Browsing and bidding open ahead of the event, so register now and start planning your strategy.
The 45th Annual Baker Industries Gala & Silent Auction
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Merion Cricket Club
Honoring Carter Mechanical, Inc. & Andrew Carter
For sponsorship inquiries, contact us at [email protected]