An Evening of Good Food, Great Friends & Giving Back

Join World Series Champion Joe Maddon for “Thanksmas for HEP” at AVA Tampa and start your holiday season with heart.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025 AVA Tampa | 718 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Three-time Manager of the Year Joe Maddon invites you to share in his Thanksmas tradition—a heartfelt celebration that’s been feeding hope and building community coast-to-coast since 2006. Enjoy his signature comfort food feast while mingling with athlete celebrities, bidding on once-in-a-lifetime auction items, and making a real difference for our unhoused neighbors

The Heart of Thanksmas

In 2006, Joe Maddon created “Thanksmas” with a powerful message: our unhoused friends need support every day, not just during the holidays. Since then, this program has provided thousands of warm meals, essential resources, and human dignity to those who need it most.

Net proceeds from this year’s Thanksmas will support the Homeless Empowerment Program, an agency that has been helping to provide housing, warm meals and critical support services to thousands of homeless individuals, families and Veterans in our community for nearly four decades.

There will also be a non-perishable food collection for the HEP Food Pantry at the event, guests can bring a non-perishable food item, or add a monetary donation ($5 – $100) along with your ticket at check out.

Your Thanksmas Experience:

General Admission – $150 per person

Savor Joe’s traditional Thanksmas menu featuring:
Spaghetti & meatballs made with love  |  Homemade pierogi  |  Fresh garlic bread  |  Dessert  |  2 glasses of wine

Plus an autographed copy of Joe’s book  “The Book of Joe,” exclusive access to celebrity meet-and-greets, live auction excitement, and the warm glow of giving back.

$10,000 Sponsorship:
Includes (12) Thanksmas dinner tickets,  PLUS:

$2,500 VIP Experience:
Includes (6) Thanksmas dinner tickets, PLUS:

• (6) autographed copies of  “The Book of Joe”
• Exclusive VIP Happy Hour (6:00 – 7:00 PM) with wine and appetizers
• Personal recognition with signage throughout the event
• Special mentions during the program
• Exclusive VIP swag to commemorate the evening
• Our deepest gratitude and VIP treatment all night long

Secure Your Spot

Space is limited. Please reserve your spot early!

Questions? Contact us at Rebeccaa@HEPempowers.org or 727-443-9041 x 135.

Thank you for your generosity. Together, we’re proving that community, compassion, and celebration go hand in hand.