Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Impact at Partnerships for Children
By Director of Development, Ally Smith.
As we look back on an incredible year, I am thrilled to share the highlights of our 2024 events and the development milestones we reached together. At Partnerships for Children, our mission is simple: to empower and support kids, teens, and families connected to CPS here in Central Texas. Because of your generosity, we’ve been able to grow our impact and are set to do even more in 2025. Events and donations make up over 30% of our annual budget, providing instruments for KING, canvases for Heart Gallery, and essentials for the Rainbow Room. We couldn’t do any of this without you. To everyone who has sponsored, attended, or donated—thank you for being part of this mission and helping us make a genuine difference.
A Gala to Remember: An Unforgettable Night of Community and Giving
Last year, we celebrated a monumental milestone - our 20th anniversary - with the theme "20 Years Strong and Blooming." It was a beautiful event honoring two decades of impact and growth.
This year, we're thrilled to return to The Mansion downtown for another unforgettable celebration on April 26, 2025, with our theme, "Deep in the Hearts of Texas." Mark your calendars and join us for a night of Texas charm, generosity, and community. Sponsorship opportunities are now available - secure yours here!
Girls and Giving: A Legacy Event
On October 4th, we revived one of our most beloved events, Girls and Giving, at the stunning Inn Cahoots in downtown Austin. From the moment DJ Cassandra hit the decks, the energy was electric. Guests enjoyed delicious catering by Elementary, and browsed an array of curated vendors offering everything from handmade goods to unique experiences.
The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and connection. The dancefloor stayed packed until closing time, as everyone celebrated the power of giving back in style. Girls and Giving has become a true tradition, and we're already dreaming up ways to make next year's event even more memorable.
Heart Gallery Expansion to Waco
In 2024, we were proud to expand the Heart Gallery into Waco! To celebrate Adoption Awareness Month, we celebrated on November 6, for “Be Inspired,” featuring special guest First Lady of Texas Cecilia Abbott. Together, we are continuing to create connections between children awaiting adoption and loving families with our Heart Gallery of Central Texas.
Holiday Hope Concert: Music and Mentorship
Antone’s, an Austin institution, provided the perfect setting for this year’s Holiday Hope Concert. Thanks to their generosity, we welcomed a full house of supporters and celebrated the season in style. The event was headlined by talented local artists like Melat, Jonathan Terrell, and Ruby Stewart, who filled the room with holiday spirit.
A special highlight of the evening was watching three children from our Kids in a New Groove (KING) program perform their favorite holiday songs. Their performances were nothing short of inspiring, reminding us all why we do what we do. Proceeds from this event will allow us to provide more instruments and mentorship opportunities for children in foster care.
Holiday Wishes: Surpassing Expectations
Holiday wishes 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary! This year, we saw a 20% increase in giving, which allowed us to fulfill the holiday dreams of over 7,500 children in foster care across 33 Central Texas counties. From sorting and wrapping to loading and unloading thousands of gifts, our incredible community of nearly 700 volunteers came together to make the season magical for so many families.
A huge thank-you to the UT football team, including standout players like Arch Manning, for rolling up their sleeves to lend a hand. We also want to express our deepest gratitude to the many corporate partners who went above and beyond this year. Your generosity ensures that children and foster care feel seen and celebrated during the holidays. Every wish fulfilled represents a moment of joy for a child who deserves nothing less.
Cover 3 Golf Tournament and Par-Tee
Our long-standing partnership with Cover 3 continues to be a cornerstone of our fundraising success. This year, Katie and Doug Young, alongside Matt and Kathy Dodson, hosted yet another record-breaking golf tournament. Thanks to their dedication, Cover 3 remains our largest donor and a vital supporter of Partnerships for Children.
Mark your calendars for 2025! The Cover 3 Par-Tee will kick off the excitement on March 30th, followed by the annual Golf Tournament on March 31st. Both events are open to the public, and we’d love for you to join us for these unforgettable days of fun, connection, and giving back.
Your participation helps ensure we can continue providing essential resources and support to children and families in our community. Together, we can make a lasting impact!
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we are entering 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for everyone who supported Partnerships for Children this year. Your generosity and passion fuel our mission: to empower children and families connected to the child welfare system by providing critical resources and support.
From Holiday Wishes to Girls and Giving, the Cover 3 Golf Tournament to the Holiday Hope Concert, your involvement ensures that we can continue making a meaningful impact in 2025 and beyond.
Click here to view our full 2024 Yearly Update and learn more about the programs and events that are transforming lives in Central Texas.
Let’s keep building together. With your support, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. 💙