The fourth annual scholarship gala, “Sneaker Ball: Hometown Heroes – Lace Up to Lift Up,” presented by the Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE) Foundation, recently brought together inspiring community leaders, advocates, and partner organizations to celebrate local heroes, mentorship, and opportunities that uplift future generations.
Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell and other attendees embraced the event’s “Sneaker Ball” theme by pairing formal attire with their favorite sneakers, symbolizing the evening’s message of unity, energy, and forward movement. Event proceeds help the HACE Foundation raise funds needed to support scholarships for local students pursuing higher education and career training.
The gala, held May 1 in Edison, also honored leaders and organizations whose service and commitment continue to strengthen communities and invest in the next generation.
“Each one of our honorees is truly deserving to be called a hometown hero,” said Curtis Myers Jr., HACE Deputy Director. “Each one has positively impacted the City of Elizabeth with their leadership, dedication, and service.”
The 2026 Hometown Hero Honorees included:
- The Elizabethport Presbyterian Center – A cornerstone community organization providing crucial resources like youth development and social services to local families.
- Antoine Nelson – Founder of the Nelson Foundation and Sons of Someone, Inc., dedicated to guiding young men in leadership and community development initiatives.
- The Elmora Youth Little League – A youth sports organization that coaches teamwork, discipline, and community pride, creating safe and supportive spaces for young athletes.
- Curtis Myers Sr. – A respected mentor and trainer known for his commitment in empowering generations of athletes and personal development.
The mission of the HACE Foundation is to advance HACE’s educational initiatives, including its college prep program, college tours, and annual scholarship opportunities. This year, the foundation proudly awarded $2,000 merit- and need-based scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education at two- and four-year colleges, universities, and trade schools.
The 2026 HACE Scholarship Recipients:
John Robert Rumola Memorial Scholarship
- Samiyah Coleman–Union College of Union County – Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Cheyenne Cora – Temple University – Communications/Broadcast Journalism
- Naomi Gray – Rider University – Accounting
Commissioners Graduate Scholarship
- Natasha Martinez – Carnegie Mellon University – Public Policy and Management
William D. Jones HBCU Scholarship
- Devone Williamson – Morgan State University – Accounting
“I’m so grateful to have a community like the Elizabeth Housing Authority supporting me and believing in my future. This scholarship means so much to me—not only because of the financial support, but because it reminds me that there are people who truly advocate for my dreams and encourage me to keep pursuing them,” said Naomi Gray, incoming accounting student at Rider University and 2026 HACE Scholarship Recipient.
Individual and corporate contributions remain welcome through www.hacenj.com, as the HACE Foundation continues its year-round mission to serve, inspire, and invest in the next generation.
Photo caption: Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell (center) speaks at the 4th Annual HACE Foundation "Sneaker Ball" scholarship fundraiser on May 1. Image courtesy of Stateside Affairs
