The Empowerment Network, Inc. hosted its 18th Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Luncheon Gala at Orlando Gardens Event Center in Maryland Heights, MO. Held during National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the elegant afternoon brought together community members, health advocates, and families to celebrate 18 years of educating, empowering, and working toward eliminating prostate cancer.

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The event featured emcee Rene Knott, Executive Director of Lift for Life Gym, and keynote speaker Dr. Kelvin Adams, President & CEO of the St. Louis Community Foundation. Together, they shared a powerful message about showing up for those you care about and care for. Under this year’s theme, “The Year of the Caregiver,” the luncheon highlighted health disparities in the African American community and reinforced the critical importance of early detection. Caregivers often go unnoticed, unthanked, and unappreciated—and this special afternoon allowed us to extend our deepest gratitude to those who stand beside men facing this disease.

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Adding to the inspiration, the gala featured a men’s fashion show showcasing prostate cancer survivors. When a man puts on a tailored suit, he stands a little taller; but when a survivor steps into that suit, it becomes a uniform of strength, confidence, and victory. By blending style, purpose, and heart, the afternoon helped break stigmas, normalize conversations around men’s health, and drive early detection—proving that together, we can save lives.

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