Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
Childhelp hosted its 22nd annual Drive the Dream Gala on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at The Phoenician, bringing together community leaders, donors and advocates to support the organization’s child abuse prevention and treatment programs.
This year’s black‑tie event also recognized the 250th anniversary of the United States, blending a historic national milestone with Childhelp’s mission to protect children and support healing.
Attendees experienced a program centered on Childhelp’s services and the impact of the organization’s nationwide efforts to support abused and neglected children.
“This year, we are celebrating not only the resilience and potential of the children we serve, but also the enduring promise of our nation,” Sara O’Meara, co-founder of Childhelp, said in a prepared statement. “As America marks 250 years, we are reminded that protecting and nurturing children is one of the most powerful ways we can honor that legacy and shape a stronger future.”
The evening included dinner, entertainment, a live auction and a fund‑a‑need moment. Grammy‑nominated country performer Collin Raye appeared during the program, and Emmy Award–winning television host and Childhelp Celebrity Ambassador Kathie Lee Gifford served as emcee. International vocalist and actress Mary Millben performed the national anthem and delivered a patriotic tribute. The event concluded with an after‑party featuring Nate Nathan & The MacDaddy‑O’s.
Special guests included Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd, John O’Hurley and Rosevelt Rawls. The event was chaired by Krystal and Chris Grogan and Debbie and Ty Jenkins. Honorary chairs included Kim and Rod Cullum, Carol and Jim Hebets and Sheila and Mike Ingram.
Proceeds support Childhelp programs in Arizona and nationwide, including the Childhelp Children’s Center of Arizona. Since 1998, the center has served more than 154,000 children, providing treatment, intervention and forensic services and serving as a model for children’s advocacy centers across the country.
