The night of June 25th, 2025, something extraordinary happened.
Our Ultimate Speakeasy wasn’t just an event—it was a culmination. A beautiful collision of business and non-profit, corporate strategy and community heart, all coming together to solve real-world problems around communication access.
At Gateway, we talk a lot about connection. We talk about breaking down barriers. About making sure everyone—whether Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or experiencing any kind of communication challenge—has access, understanding, and choice. And last week, we didn’t just talk about it. We lived it.
When Business Meets Community, Big Things Happen
From the moment the doors opened at CFG Bank Arena, the energy was undeniable. Guests showed up. Sponsors showed out. Conversations happened that otherwise wouldn’t have. Networks expanded. Ideas were exchanged. Funds were raised. And most importantly—awareness around communication equity grew.
To our guests: You brought the energy. You leaned in. You asked questions. You connected with people you hadn’t met before. Thank you for showing up with open minds and full hearts.
To our sponsors and event partners: You didn’t just write checks. You made the decision to stand beside us, using your platforms and influence to help expand access and inclusion across Maryland. This is what partnership looks like. We’re especially grateful to CFG Bank Arena for providing the perfect backdrop for these powerful conversations.
Why This Event Mattered—And Why It’ll Matter Even More Next Year
The Ultimate Speakeasy is more than a party (though it was certainly that too!). It’s a statement. It’s a reminder that corporate and community collaboration can lead to real, lasting change. We’re already hearing from folks who want to get involved for next year. People who want to know how they can help make Maryland a place where everyone—regardless of communication barriers—can thrive. When businesses, non-profits, advocates, and everyday community members come together, we get more than just a good time. We get momentum. We get solutions.
Thank You for Making It Happen
To everyone who played a role—from the sponsors and the board, to our staff, volunteers, and every single person who bought a ticket or shared a post on social media: Thank you. You’ve helped amplify our ability to reach more people, provide more services, and continue building bridges of communication.
We’re already counting down the days until next year’s Ultimate Speakeasy. And trust us—it’s going to be even bigger. Because when we show up for each other, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.
Learn More About Gateway Maryland
Gateway Maryland connects people to their worlds and aids individuals in their ability to understand and to be understood. Gateway Maryland has grown into an organization that serves more than 4,000 children and adults every year, helping them communicate more effectively. With programming both on our Baltimore campus and through community-based programming, we provide education, access, and medical support to anyone who needs it.
We envision a society where everyone can understand and be understood and where everyone is treated with integrity, compassion, and equity.
