For years, the Joan Hisaoka “Make a Difference” Gala was held in the fall to raise funds for organizations that helped those living with cancer. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts is grateful to have been a recipient of The Joan Hisaoka Gala. 

We appreciate and recognize our dedicated former board member, Robert Hisaoka, who created this event in his sister’s name. Joan Hisaoka attended Smith Center’s Living Well with Cancer Program in 2008 and passed away shortly after. She had been so affected by her experience, finding the tools she learned in coping with her cancer so profoundly useful, that she herself had wanted to help others. With this wish, Robert created the Gala to carry on her legacy.

The Joan Hisaoka Gala – Assisting those Living with Cancer raised approximately $17,500,000 in total. Every year, the black-tie event attracted close to 500 philanthropists from the Washington, DC business community, featuring a four-course dinner followed by a reception, dancing, and silent and live auctions with exclusive luxury items.

Over 20,000 people in Washington, DC, currently live with cancer. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts is one of the only independent cancer support organizations serving the DC cancer community. As one of two recipients of the Gala, Smith Center received significant support for our programs, including support groups, stress reduction, nutrition workshops, cancer retreats, individual patient navigation services, and other healing resources.

We are honored to have been a beneficiary. 

With your support, Smith Center can continue to be a beacon of hope, joy, and transformation for those in need. Every dollar counts, and together, we can make a difference. Donate today to become a part of something truly special. Thank you for your kindness and belief in our mission.