What a night to remember!
Our Silver Soirée last Friday was a huge success, as we celebrated Children In Need’s 25th Anniversary! We had a full house, filled with energy, laughter, and the incredible sounds of Staff Infection rocking the stage. Guests enjoyed a delicious buffet-style dinner, a captivating silent auction, and a heartfelt awards ceremony.
A massive thank you to our dedicated attendees for joining us and to our amazing volunteers, staff, and board members who work tirelessly to support our families. We are deeply grateful to our outstanding event committee and the team at Beaver Creek Country Club for going above and beyond to make the night extraordinary.
Thank-you Sponsors!
A special shoutout to our incredible sponsors who made the evening possible: Middletown Valley Bank, CertainTeed, Ellsworth Electric, Point Broadband – Hagerstown, Maryland Physicians Care, Blue Ridge Risk Partners, F&M Trust, Ewing Oil, Jennifer E. Goldman, Comcast, SEK, CPAs & Advisors, Orgill Distributions, Curry & Company CPAs, LLC, Hagerstown Home Builders, Fulton Bank, Brethren Mutual Insurance Company, J&J Trash Inc. and RBC Wealth Management.
If you missed the event, which was expertly emceed by Paul Frey and our Executive Director Brittany Wedd, check out some amazing snapshots captured by our official event photographer, Brenda Sterling, below! Thank you to Breanna of Wildflowers + Whimsy LLC for creating our stunning balloon arches and backdrop!
Excellence in Service Awards – Mike South & Mark Skypack
During the Soiree, Children In Need awarded the Excellence in Service Awards to Mike South and Mark Skypack. These awards honor the unwavering dedication and impactful contributions of these two remarkable volunteers! Each week, these devoted community champions drive across Washington County, gathering clothing donations for Children In Need. Rain or shine, they fill the agency’s 12-foot van, ensuring that essential items reach the children and families who need them most. Beyond their weekly efforts, Mike and Mark also organize clothing drives, tirelessly advocating for the agency’s mission and encouraging community support. Their exceptional commitment to service and advocacy has made a tremendous difference, and we are thrilled to recognize them both with this well-deserved award.
Beacon of Hope Award – Dana Pentoney
We presented the Beacon of Hope Award to Dana Pentoney in recognition of her steadfast commitment to improving the lives of children through her work in Washington County Public Schools. As the WCPS Homeless Coordinator, Dana has been a guiding light in our community, dedicating her time, resources, and passion to ensure that every child has access to the support and opportunities they deserve. Her tireless efforts and innovative initiatives have made a significant impact, fostering a nurturing environment where children can thrive academically and personally. This award honors Dana’s unwavering dedication and the lasting hope she instills in the hearts of the unhoused youth she serves.
Legacy of Leadership Award – Anne Martin
We were so honored to present the Legacy of Leadership Award to Anne Martin, a true pioneer and pillar of Children In Need. As our agency’s very first Executive Director, Anne has dedicated her life to uplifting thousands of children and families in our community. Through her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, she built a powerful network of support, establishing the foundation and relationships that have allowed Children In Need to grow and serve more children each year. Few in our community have touched as many lives as Anne, and her lasting influence continues to shape the mission and impact. We are profoundly grateful for her dedication, and we’re thrilled to recognize her extraordinary legacy with this award.
Champion of Children Award – Julie Gaver
We were pleased to present the Champion of Children Award to Julie Gaver, whose extraordinary dedication and service over the past 14 years through Soles of Love have left a lasting impact on countless nonprofits throughout Washington and Frederick counties. As the founder of Soles of Love, Julie has donated thousands of new shoes to Children In Need, helping to provide essential support to families and bring comfort and joy to children. Through her selfless commitment and tireless efforts, especially during Children In Need’s One Foot Up free shoe distribution event, Julie has alleviated a significant burden for so many families, making an immeasurable difference in their lives and in our community. We are deeply grateful for her compassion and honored to recognize her as a true Champion of Children.
Heart of Service Award – Elizabeth Stone
We were pleased to present the Heart of Service Award to Elizabeth Stone in recognition of her dedicated years of unwavering support and commitment to uplifting the community’s children. Liz has consistently gone above and beyond, embodying the true spirit of service through her generous contributions, volunteer efforts, and advocacy. Her passion for making a difference has positively impacted countless lives, inspiring others to join in the mission of nurturing and empowering our youth. This award honors Elizabeth’s exceptional dedication and the profound impact she has created in the hearts of the children and families she serves.
The Hopebreather Community Impact Award – JLG Industries
The Hopebreather Community Impact Award was presented to JLG Industries in recognition of their inspiring commitment to uplifting the lives of children and families in need. Through their regular clothing drives and volunteer days, JLG Industries and their incredible employees have provided essential items that bring warmth, comfort, and hope to countless young hearts. Their contributions have made a meaningful impact, helping to ease the struggles of many in our community. We are deeply grateful to have partners like JLG Industries, who not only understand the importance of giving back but actively work toward a more inclusive and equitable future. This award celebrates their generosity, community spirit, and shared vision to make a difference.
The Caring Hearts Award – St. Paul’s Reformed Church
The Caring Hearts Award was presented to St. Paul’s Reformed Church in honor of their remarkable dedication and ongoing support of Children In Need. Through regular drives for clothing, coats, and hygiene items, as well as volunteer days at our center, the congregation of St. Paul’s Reformed Church has demonstrated a true commitment to uplifting children in our community. This award recognizes individuals and organizations like St. Paul’s Reformed Church who go above and beyond, providing essential resources, care, and compassion to foster an environment where every child has the chance to thrive. Their generosity and collective efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can create together. St. Paul’s Reformed Church embodies the spirit of the Caring Hearts Award, inspiring us all to take action and support our community’s youth with open hearts.
See a selection of photos from the evening! More are on our Facebook page.
