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Childhelp celebrates 65 years at 20th annual Drive the Dream gala

Childhelp hosts 20th anniversary Drive the Dream gala at the Phoenician
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press

Childhelp celebrated its 65-year anniversary and its 20th annual Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala on Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale.

Patrons of the effort enjoyed an evening of fine dining, dancing, a live auction and a fund-a-need — all to raise money for Childhelp’s mission of healing and hope, and lifesaving programs.

Among the more than 700 attendees were longtime Childhelp Celebrity Ambassador John Stamos, his wife, Caitlin, and son, Billy.

“I’ve always been an advocate for children’s safety. And as a father myself, I have an even deeper commitment to amplifying the work being done by Childhelp,” Mr. Stamos said in a prepared statement.

Other celebrity ambassadors in attendance included actors Kathie Lee Gifford, John O’Hurley, Jen Lilley and Melissa Peterman, who served as the evening’s host. The Tenors also marked their triumphant return. Local politicians and celebrities included former Sheriff Paul Penzone, Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee, businessman Mike Ingram, Childhelp’s Founders, Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson, alongside sponsors Carol and Jim Hebets and co-chairs Dru Hammer and Scott Schirmer.

Founded by Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson in 1959, Childhelp has brought the light of hope and healing into the lives of more than 12 million children as a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping abused, neglected and at-risk children.

Childhelp celebrates 65 years at 20th annual Drive the Dream gala

The evening commemorated Childhelp’s extraordinary journey over the years, culminating in a memorable moment when Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller surprised attendees with a significant announcement. He declared the establishment of the inaugural college of child and family welfare.

This pioneering collaboration between Grand Canyon University and Childhelp will be known as the Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson Global Institute of Child and Family Welfare. Anticipate further updates and announcements throughout the year as more details are unveiled.

Proceeds from the event directly support Childhelp’s local and national lifesaving programs. It is estimated that five children die every day from child abuse and neglect.

Event sponsors included The Hebets Company, Ira J. Gaines and Cheryl J. Hintzen-Gaines, Peachtree Partners AZ, Legacy Gallery, Hammered Heart Foundation, NFP and more.

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