We were blown away by the tremendous demonstration of care and support on display at our annual benefit, which took place last week in New York City.

Over 400 people came together to learn more about our work and pay tribute to our honorees, collectively raising nearly $1 million!

Athletic all-stars Allyson Felix, Katelyn Ohashi, John Starks, and Bernie Williams were recognized as Champions for Children for sharing their hearts, voices and financial support to ensure children’s well-being.

Also recognized for their tireless advocacy was our board Vice Chair Paul Metselaar, founder, chairman and CEO of Ovation Travel Group, who received the prestigious Founder’s Award; Comic Relief USA, American Heroes for Children Award recipient; and Kim Mukerjee, MD, MPH, medical director of the New Orleans Children’s Health Project, who received the Irwin Redlener Award for Innovation and Advocacy for embodying the spirit and mission of Children’s Health Fund.

As I told our guests that night, as much as we deliver high-quality care to children all across the country, what’s just as important is that we offer hope to children and their families. We won’t give up on them and will continue to make sure children have the healthcare they need.

I am honored and humbled that the children we serve can lean on and look up to champions like our honorees, and many of you, that are doing something, great or small on their behalf.

And even if you were not able to attend the event you still have an opportunity to show your support by making a donation. Even better, Comic Relief is matching donations 1:1 made through this Wednesday, June 19, at midnight, so please donate now!

As Bernie Williams said at our event, “I believe in giving our kids all the opportunities that they deserve and they are our biggest resource. If we don’t take care of them, who will?”

Photo Highlights From the Event: