November is a special month to give thanks—and KidWorks is especially grateful to everyone who made November’s Foundation for Success luncheon such a meaningful way to empower our proven after school programs.
Over $750,000 was raised during the Nov. 8 event, and those funds are already at work helping over 1,300 students in grades preschool through high school to excel academically, develop their leadership skills, grow spiritually and explore their artistic talents.
The Foundation for success luncheon was also the perfect venue to present the 2018 “Dan Donahue Leadership Award” to Steven L. Craig, President & CEO of Craig Realty. Steve is one of KidWorks’ most fervent, generous and committed KidWorks supporters.
“We are honored to present this very special award to Steve in recognition of his longtime support of KidWorks’ youth and families,” says David Benavides. KidWorks’ CEO/Executive Director. “Steve’s service to KidWorks as a Board member, chairman of the Advisory Council and past chairman of the annual luncheon is exemplary. His vision and leadership have elevated the annual luncheon to a whole new level, which has been so important as it raises the majority of KidWorks’ annual after school program budget.”
The luncheon audience was also deeply moved by the remarks from our keynote speaker, Cory Hahn.Cory was recruited by Arizona State University to play baseball for the Sun Devils. During the opening game of his freshman year, he was paralyzed from the chest down while sliding into second base. Despite his injury, he remained active in the baseball program and went on to graduate from ASU with a degree in economics.
The day before the luncheon, Cory visited with students at our Dan Donahue Center, and inspired them with his positive attitude and commitment to helping others.
“Cory is a living example of perseverance. It was inspiring to hear how he chased down his dreams in baseball and is now chasing a new set of dreams both professionally and personally.” said KidWorks alumnus, Edgar Morales.
KidWorks appreciates each of the over 440 attendees, along with those who purchased tables and donated auction items. Please also join us in deeply thanking this year’s luncheon sponsors, including:
Presenting Sponsors
American Career College
Caribou Industries
Heidi and Ruben Mendoza
West Coast University
Foundation Sponsors
Bank of America/Merrill Lynch
Craig Realty Group
Diamond Sponsors
Donahue Schriber
Gregory and Stacey Brown Family Charitable Fund
Lisa Gels, KidWorks’ Associate Director of Development, says the Foundation for Success luncheon is a tradition that’s positively impacted hundreds of students’ lives.
“The Foundation for Success luncheon is the longest-running major event KidWorks holds each year,” Lisa says. “Even more important than the number of years is the incredible positive impact the dollars raised has had on so many young lives and families. That’s why we say a big ‘thank you!’ to our supporters not only during the month of Thanksgiving, but each and every day.”