CASE STUDY
Rides to Remember Gala
About
Rides to Remember galvanizes community strength to bring moments of joy and support to children with cancer. Partnering with organizations like Cure Childhood Cancer, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Camp Sunshine, they provide hope and help to young patients and their families.
The premier Rides to Remember Gala, held at the Phase Learning Center on August 11th, was a resplendent evening that successfully raised over $150K for three benevolent charities. The gala atmosphere was electric, further animated by the talented Troutman Duo and SOAR's efficient auction services. . A fashionable crowd, vibrant performances, engaging icebreakers, and an emotive charity panel punctuated the night. The generous spirit of attendees shone brightly during the lively auction, culminating in a festive dance celebration.
The Services
SOAR delivered a comprehensive suite of services ensuring the gala's seamless flow and profound impact, from strategic planning to marketing, sponsorship acquisition, event execution, and follow-up.
The Mission
Our mission was to host a sophisticated, well-attended gala, maximizing the fundraising potential for our partner charities and offering hope to families battling pediatric cancer.
The Outcome
The gala emerged as a testament to community solidarity, with guests partaking in a night of philanthropy and elegance, raising a record amount of money for the Rides to Remember charity.
Brand Development & Graphic Design
We elevated the Rides to Remember brand for the gala, infusing elegance into its classic visual identity. Our designs graced everything from printed materials to digital promotions.
Sponsorship Outreach & Fulfillment
We secured over 100 local businesses as sponsors and auction donors, meticulously honoring their contributions.
Development & In-Person Hosting of the Auction
We elevated the Rides to Remember brand for the gala, infusing elegance into its classic visual identity. Our designs graced everything from printed materials to digital promotions.
Social Media Countdown Reels
Social Media Social Stories
The Impact
The event was a success, not just in attendance but in fostering a supportive network for the cause, evidenced by the impressive fundraising achievements, raising a record amount of funds in its inaugural year.
Most impressively the event exposed the charity and its long standing work in the pediatric cancer space to an extended and influential part of the Greater Atlanta community,
The Proof is in the Numbers
Cash & In-Kind Sponsorships Total Raised
Live Auctions & Donations Raised
Guests
I highly recommend working with Soar Media! They hosted an event for ATL Ferrari at our event space & were an absolute pleasure to work with. Olivia’s energy, personality, and work ethic is one of a kind! You will not be disappointed. All the ladies were wonderful at Soar, and I am thankful for our connection.
Maggie Ruane
Chris Lawton, SOAR's web development expert, brings over 39 years of experience in information technology. Chris served as the architect and director of IT and Enterprise Architecture for a US company in the US and Europe, where he was responsible for business systems across the continent. He led the team in implementing innovative solutions that streamlined business processes and improved efficiency. Additionally, Chris worked at Coca-Cola in Atlanta, where he was the architect developing and implementing strategies that enhanced website performance and ensured optimal user experience for 650 global websites and their infrastructure.
SOAR got its start with its Aussie founder, Olivia Malifa. Olivia has over 18 years of experience in the marketing industry. She has worked in all capacities and from all angles, serving as a marketing manager in both corporate and private businesses for over a decade before starting her own successful consultancy firm. Through her work in agency, Olivia discovered her true passion for combining creativity and strategy to serve a diverse range of clients across multiple industries.
SOAR's co-founder and COO, Anthony 'Anton' Forbes-Roberts is an executive, advisor and investor with over twenty-five years of leadership in Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures, and nonprofits. His marketing experience includes leadership positions at Ogilvy Worldwide and Carlson Companies, in a career where he has designed, built, and/or sold programs driving over $500M in annual revenue. Anton's expertise in strategy & operations helps SOAR Media build, support and optimize its unique 'one stop' marketing services model on behalf of its clients.
Andrew Armanasco is a key member of the SOAR team, specializing in new business development, account management, and relationship management. Andrew holds a degree in Business from Tulsa University and has been in the industry for several years. He has worked throughout the Americas and the European Union, helping businesses with community development, land acquisition, manufacturing, expansion, sales, and distribution.
Behind every successful brand is one fundamental element: engaging experiences. As an Atlanta-native, Brand Marketing Strategist (Senior Account Manager), Kate Kisner has 13+ years of developing world-class events, acquisitions, brand concepts, and launches. Adept at developing methods to enhance visibility and market share by turning followers into clients, out-earning competitors, and increasing profit margins with forward-thinking, holistic brand experiences.
Moriah Deal is SOAR’s account manager with an impressive background in all areas of Public Relations and Marketing. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Science from Kennesaw State University, with a minor in Marketing. Since then, she has brought her skills to many industries. Moriah has written Healthcare PR copy with WellStar and the Georgia Pharmacy Association, done digital marketing for a carpet manufacturer that targeted Commercial Event and Hospitality spaces, facilitated social media marketing for a non-profit, and worked in graphic design and event management for a plumbing marketing department.
Delfina Booth is an interdisciplinary professional who excels in writing, marketing, and social media. She received her Bachelor's in Literature, Media, and Communication and Master's in Global Media and Communications from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Delfina is always creating; her academic background includes building two fantasy computer games, directing three short films, and studying abroad in Mexico City twice.
Logan Wilson brings a wealth of marketing expertise to SOAR Media, where he excels in crafting impactful strategies and innovative campaigns. As the Marketing Coordinator for the Seattle Seawolves, Logan handles social media, advertising, promotional design, sponsorships, and data analysis to drive marketing success. Combining his marketing skills with a deep passion for sports, fueled by his sister’s rugby career, Logan thrives on the excitement of game days and engaging fans. His dedication to excellence in every project reflects his commitment to both the sport and his role.
Jamie is our senior account manager, with a master’s degree and over 15 years of experience across a number of industries. She excels at guiding clients to success, having overseen accounts for major brands like Nike, Adidas, Starbucks, and Tommy Hilfiger. Originally from Texas, Jamie has lived in California and D.C., and now resides in Washington. In her free time, she enjoys family activities, traveling, outdoor running, yoga, and kayaking.
Pago brings over two years of freelance experience in video and photo editing. In his role, he takes pride in bringing imagination to life by creating and refining compelling visuals to match our clients' needs. When not working, he enjoys quality time with his wife, their dog, and a good night's sleep.
Chance Wenglewski is a graphic designer and illustrator with five years of experience under his belt. He loves contributing to the creative process of using his art to take that project to the next level and leave an impact. In his free time, Chance stays active with regular visits to the gym, training for rugby season, and exploring his passion for tattooing.
Lain is a creative force at SOAR Media, with proven success in marketing teams. She has developed a flair for creating visually compelling narratives and building cohesive brand identities. With her expertise in graphic design, multimedia, and brand identity development, Lain creates unique, memorable brand experiences that capture audiences' hearts and catapult client success.
Amanda Lako is SOAR’s marketing intern with a passion for creativity and marketing. In December 2024, she graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a concentration in Data Analytics. Amanda merges her energy for marketing and her analytical skills to bring fresh perspectives to the team and new ideas to the table. In her free time, she loves to read, travel, and try new restaurants!
Our newest intern is a passionate, smart, hard working professional looking to start her career as an entry-level marketer for a high-performance organization with opportunity for growth. Zoe Franklin is currently pursuing a BBA in International Business and Marketing with a Minor in Japanese Language and Literature at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Set to graduate in Spring 2025, Zoe is excited to enter the world of business and showcase what she has to offer.
Olivia Malifa and the entire team at SOAR has been instrumental in our continued success over these past 3 years. Our company produces many activations each year, and they are all very complex and time intensive. SOAR understands our brand values, and works closely with us to bring our vision to life at each and every event. We could not be more impressed with their work, and look forward to our continued partnership!
Jacqueline Johnson Marketing Director