Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
Child Crisis Arizona raised more than $1 million Saturday, March 21, during its 49th annual fundraising gala in Scottsdale.
Held in the Paradise Ballroom at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, the event drew more than 500 guests for its “Mixtape Magic” theme, which reflected 1980s pop culture and supported the organization’s prevention, intervention and wellness programs, according to a press release.
To put the impact of the evening into perspective:
- Every $50,000 helps provide housing and support services for young adults transitioning out of foster care.
- Every $25,000 supports experiences for medically fragile children at Whispering Hope Ranch.
- Every $10,000 provides shelter, meals, counseling and care for youth in emergency and group homes.
- Every $5,000 delivers support services for children in foster care.
- Every $1,000 helps provide groceries and basic necessities for families in need.
- Every $500 helps ensure a foster youth has clothing and essential items for the year.
“Child Crisis Arizona was built on a simple but powerful belief that children are safest, strongest, and most likely to thrive when families are supported,” Torrie A. Taj, CEO of Child Crisis Arizona, said. “What we have created over nearly five decades is not a single program, but a connected, intentional continuum of care that meets families where they are, whether they are facing crisis, working toward stability, or building long-term wellness.”
Ms. Taj continued, “Because of the generosity in this room, we are able to step in at every stage of that journey. We can provide immediate safety when it is needed most, but we can also walk alongside families as they heal, grow, and create a future filled with possibility. That is the true impact of tonight.”
In addition to fundraising, the event honored Vala and David Lueth with the organization’s Legacy of Love Award, recognizing their support for children and families in Arizona.
“Vala and David represent the very best of what it means to invest in community,” Ms. Taj said. “Their generosity is not just about giving, it is about engagement, curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand how they can create lasting impact.”
A story shared during the program highlighted the real-life impact of Child Crisis Arizona’s work and its approach to long-term support for children and families.
The event incorporated themed activities throughout the venue. Guests visited a vintage arcade featuring games such as Ms. Pac-Man and Whack-A-Mole, while a DJ played 1980s music and look-alike performers portraying David Bowie and Cyndi Lauper circulated among attendees. Glamour Shots-style photo stations replaced a traditional photo booth, and guests customized vintage trucker hats. A dirty soda bar and themed cocktails were also offered.
Following the reception, guests attended a dinner and program emceed by auctioneer Bobby D. The program included storytelling, raffles and a paddle raise. Afterward, the arcade reopened, a scratcher-style prize booth offered the chance to win wines and spirits, and the band Rock Lobster performed.
“Every element of the evening was designed to create connection, joy, and a shared sense of purpose,” Ms. Taj said. “When people come together in this way, not only do we raise critical funds, but we build a community that is deeply invested in ensuring children and families have the support they need to thrive.”
Sponsors included General Dynamics, Lennar Homes, America First Credit Union, Nautilus Insurance, Enterprise Bank, Nationwide, Wilde Wealth Management Group, APS, CHASSE Building Team, Sunflower Bank, JARS, BOK Financial and Crescent Crown.
As Child Crisis Arizona approaches its 50th anniversary, the organization said it will continue expanding services to support children and families across Arizona.
“The work we do does not end when the music fades,” Ms. Taj said. “It continues in homes, classrooms, shelters, and communities across Arizona. And because of this community’s belief in our mission, we are able to ensure that stability, wellness, and opportunity are not just moments, but lasting outcomes for the families we serve.”
