Since 1996, The Tampa Bay Academy of Hope has provided at risk youth in Hillsborough County with exactly what is promised in their name: hope. On Saturday, June 27th, the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope will be holding their 13th annual “Faces of Hope” black tie awards banquet.

The evening’s keynote speaker will be Michelle A. Robinson, the President of Verizon’s Southeast Region, and entertainment will be provided by the Empyreal Chinese Acrobats.  An awards ceremony will be hosted by local television personalities Kathy Fountain and Frank Robertson from FOX 13. Awards will be presented in honor of the involvement of local individuals and companies that are making a difference in the lives of Tampa Bay’s youth through contributions, civic efforts, or direct involvement in their communities.

All proceeds from the Faces of Hope event will benefit the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope’s “Leadership Through Education” program, which helps “defeat illiteracy among disadvantaged and at-risk students.”

The Tampa Bay Academy of Hope was founded by former football player James Evans. Through his leadership and dedication, thousands of at risk youth and their families have been changed for the better. The Academy “offers counseling to inner city youth to put them on the path to become productive citizens.” Governor Charlie Crist says of the organization,  “With the help of…organizations like Tampa Bay Academy of Hope, together we can provide a better future for our children.”

The event will take place at A La Carte Pavilion in Tampa. Tickets are available for $100 per seat, or $1,000 per table. The reception will begin at 5pm, and be followed by a dinner at 7:30. For more information on the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope and the banquet, or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.tampahope.com/ or call 813-277-0464.