The Centers for Youth and Families is hosting its annual fundraiser, EVOLVE on Jan. 23 at the Statehouse Convention Center, themed “A Night in Oz.”
The mission of the CFYF is to “provide specialized prevention, intervention and treatment service that promote emotional and social wellness for children and families of Arkansas.” A parent resource center, youth emergency shelter and therapeutic transitional living center are just a few of the amenities the organization offers.
Event chair Bridget Norton told us about what attendees can expect — including live music from Rodney Block & The Real Music Lovers and fantastic décor — and we’re already counting down the days. Buy your tickets here.
Tell us about A Night in Oz.
Bridget Norton: A Night in Oz will highlight the fact that for more than 130 years, Centers has been giving children and youth a place to call home. Not to give too much away, but your readers can expect to walk into the Statehouse and truly be blown away. Heather Owens, our décor chair, has done a fabulous job of transforming EVOLVE 2016 into The Emerald City…
Since there is no place like home, our patrons will enjoy a “home cooking meets gourmet” rendition of chicken and waffles accompanied with specialty pastries that will bring Oz to life. We will also celebrate with a live and silent auction featuring trips to Italy, Hawaii and South Carolina, jewelry from Stanley Jewelers, artwork designed by our kids and more surprises to be revealed at the event!
How will this year’s event be different from years past?
BN: Over the past two years, EVOLVE has nearly doubled in size and exceeded all attendance and revenue goals… I think the connection of our theme to the mission of the organization will truly make this event stand out from past years. The endless opportunities to capture so many classic elements of a timeless story like The Emerald City and “The Wizard of OZ,” highlighting Centers’ daily work to provide a better heart, stronger mind and strength and courage make it that much more fun and meaningful to revolve this event around.
How can readers get involved with the CFYF? What is your biggest need?
BN: There are many ways to get involved in Centers. Volunteers are needed to help with ticket sales, donor solicitations and other needs for special events like EVOLVE and our annual Centers Classic Golf Tournament. There are also opportunities to work directly with children and youth we serve by providing parties or activities for the residents and helping with ongoing needs for clothing, backpacks, school supplies and gifts at Christmas. Interested volunteers can contact the Centers Foundation for more information.