NEWS

Access to Success (A2S), an international nonprofit founded by former Davidson College men’s basketball player Andrew Lovedale, will celebrate its sixteenth year of “Unlocking Potential” at its annual fundraising gala, Soulful Supper, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 6 p.m. at 658 Events in Charlotte.

The event will bring together approximately 300 community members committed to unlocking the potential of Nigerian youth and their families through education, community empowerment and entrepreneurship. A2S has set a fundraising goal of $325,000 to support its grassroots programs in Nigeria.

The evening will feature a social hour, dinner, silent auction and special presentation, along with interactive experiences showcasing A2S programs. Featured speakers include A2S Founder Andrew Lovedale; Davidson College Professor Dr. Ken Menkhaus, whose work focuses on conflict, governance and development with a specialized interest in Africa; and A2S Nigerian scholar Ifeanyi “Iffy” Ufochukwu, a Duke University graduate student and Division I basketball player. The evening will be hosted by local businesswoman, A2S Board Member and fellow Nigerian Ambimbola Akintolayo.

A fashion show featuring clothing made in Nigeria from Nigerian fabrics will complement an evening of music, inspirational conversations and celebration.

Founded in 2010, A2S provides sustainable educational and faith-based programs designed to create long-term change for Nigerian children, families and communities. Programs include the After School Academy, Entrepreneur Empowerment, Workforce Development and Community Empowerment through the Dignified Giving Center, as well as a long-running partnership with a local Internally Displaced Persons camp.

A2S’s vision is that every child in Nigeria find a dignified path to a successful life and is empowered to live out God’s plan for a future filled with hope. Through holistic ministry, A2S works to create sustainable growth and help families and communities build brighter futures.

“Every person who attends Soulful Supper plays a special role in unlocking potential for Nigerian youth and their families,” Lovedale said. “Each ticket purchased helps provide education, community empowerment and entrepreneurship opportunities to unlock the potential that all God’s children deserve.”

Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities:

Standard tickets begin at $150 per person and include dinner, drinks and access to a silent auction featuring more than 80 items. Guests can also purchase fashion pieces featured in the Nigerian fashion show and shop the “Buy Now” Nigerian market. Auction items include handcrafted Nigerian artisan goods, along with gifts and experiences from local businesses throughout Charlotte and Lake Norman.

All proceeds from this year’s event will support A2S programming in Benin City, Nigeria. Ticket sales close September 1, 2026. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as space is limited. Those attending with friends, family or coworkers can also purchase a table and receive recognition as a table sponsor.

Event Details:

What: Soulful Supper, A2S’s annual flagship fundraising gala

When: Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 6 p.m.

Where: 658 Events, 3646 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC 28205

Goal: Raise $325,000 to support grassroots programs serving Nigerian youth and families

Tickets: Beginning at $150 per person

Ticket deadline: September 1, 2026

 To purchase tickets or learn more about Soulful Supper and A2S, visit this website.

https://secure.qgiv.com/event/soulfulsupper/

For questions about sponsorships, tickets or the event, contact Kristina at kristina@a2sfoundation.org.