The Marriott Foundation hosts an annual gala each June to celebrate the year's achievements, to honor partners and contributors, and to generate additional support for its Bridges program.
Despite the soft economy, the 2009 Marriott Foundation Gala attracted over 1,000 guests and raised more than $800,000 to serve young people through Bridges. The event, held at the Wardman Park Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC, was chaired by Richard E. Marriott. Guests were entertained by Orioles' Hall of Famer and Baseball's Ironman, Cal Ripken, Jr.
Past headliners have included President George H.W. Bush, General Colin L. Powell, USA (Retired), talk show legend Larry King, First Lady Rosalyn Carter, actor James Earl Jones, Hall of Fame Quarterback Steve Young and Washington Redskins Head Coach Joe Gibbs.
Videos from this year's event and past events can be found on YouTube.
