Light the Fuse 2026: Celebrating Progress and Igniting What’s Next
More than 200 Order of Fuse members, community leaders, supporters, partners, and advocates gathered at Crown Hall in March for an unforgettable evening of celebration, reflection, and momentum at Fuse Project’s annual Light the Fuse fundraiser. The event raised more than $48,000 to help advance education, wellness, and safe housing initiatives that benefit children and families across South Alabama.
Presented by Infirmary Health, this year’s event reflected not only how far Fuse Project has come over the last decade, but also the bold vision guiding the organization into its next chapter.
The evening’s program centered around Fuse Project’s belief that every child deserves an opportunity to succeed, regardless of their ZIP code — a message woven throughout the night in speeches, visuals, video storytelling, and conversations among guests.
From the moment guests arrived, Crown Hall was filled with energy and optimism. Screens in the venue showcased the students, schools, and programs that have helped shape Fuse Project’s impact over the past several years, while live performances by Blow House Brass Band, the Mobile Kappa League, and Cooper Trent created a celebratory atmosphere that carried throughout the evening. Guests also enjoyed an incredible culinary experience from Bay Gourmet, featuring delicious food and cocktails that elevated the atmosphere. Future Astronaut also helped elevate the experience with immersive visuals and production that highlighted Fuse’s mission and future direction.
The event program opened with remarks from Board Chair Monique Baugh, who recognized the many people and organizations who make Fuse’s work possible, including community leaders, educators, volunteers, sponsors, Order of Fuse members, and long-time supporters.
Co-founder Dr. Grant Zarzour reflected on the organization’s early beginnings and the evolution of Fuse Project over the last 10 years, while Executive Director Ann-Brooks Morrissette shared the organization’s refreshed direction and long-term vision. Guests also heard from Dr. Ankit Gulati, former board chair and current board treasurer, who spoke about Fuse Project’s growing housing initiatives and the importance of stable housing in creating opportunities for children and families.
One of the evening’s most exciting announcements was the organization’s continued expansion into housing initiatives following its designation as a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) — a distinction held by only a small number of organizations in Alabama. The announcement highlighted Fuse Project’s commitment to supporting children not only in the classroom, but also through safe, stable environments at home.
The evening also celebrated meaningful educational progress across Fuse Project’s partner schools. Dr. Gulati recognized the leadership of Florence Howard Elementary School Principal Regina Flowers, Calloway-Smith Middle School Principal Nedra Payton, and Pathway K-5 Principal Kirsten Glover, while highlighting the achievement of both Florence Howard and Calloway-Smith earning “B” scores on the Alabama State Department of Education Report Card for the first time in recent years.
Principal Regina Flowers spoke directly about the impact of Fuse Project’s ABC Program and the organization’s partnership with Florence Howard Elementary, emphasizing the importance of consistent support, enrichment opportunities, and community investment in helping students succeed.
Guests also heard from representatives of Infirmary Health, including Diana Brinson and Robby McClure, who spoke about the importance of corporate partnership and community investment in advancing opportunities for local children and families.
Another memorable moment of the evening came during the presentation of the Igniter Awards, recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond in support of Fuse Project’s mission. Presented by Order of Fuse member and Light the Fuse committee member Graysi Gartman, the awards honored Savannah Shumake, Cecily Harper, Ann Cortopassi, and Erin Delaporte for their leadership, dedication, and volunteer spirit that continue to fuel Fuse’s work across the community. Guests also heard Graysi share her personal experience with Fuse Project and the impact of Order of Fuse involvement.
Throughout the night, guests enjoyed an exciting auction featuring experiences, wellness packages, dining, travel, and family-focused items generously donated by local businesses and supporters. Congratulations to this year’s auction winners:
Fuse Project extends sincere gratitude to the many businesses and organizations that donated auction items and experiences in support of the event.
The success of Light the Fuse would not have been possible without the incredible support of sponsors, partners, volunteers, entertainers, vendors, and the dedicated planning committee who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the evening to life.
Thank You to Our Entertainment, Production, and Event Partners
Cooper Trent
Thank You to Our Light the Fuse Planning Committee
Fuse Project is deeply grateful to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, sponsored, bid in the auction, and helped make Light the Fuse such a meaningful evening.
As the organization continues implementing its strategic vision and expanding its impact through education, wellness, and housing initiatives, Light the Fuse served as a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together around a shared purpose.
Because every child deserves an opportunity to succeed, regardless of their ZIP code.
Photos by Emily Jo Photography
