The Children & Families Philanthropy Award recognizes an individual or organization that is tirelessly advocating on behalf of children in our Philadelphia community. Recipients of this award are working toward true equity by enabling families to put their children first – something that is core to our Fred’s Footsteps’ mission.
Christine accepted the award from Museum President & CEO, and longtime Fred’s Footsteps supporter, Patricia D. Wellenbach. Patricia was an original member of the Fred’s Footsteps Grant Advisory Committee, and was instrumental to the foundation of our organization. In a heartfelt introduction, Patricia reflected on how the organization truly honors Christine’s father, Fred’s, remarkable legacy, and how proud Fred would be of the work she is doing in his name.
Christine accepted the award saying,
“Tonight, it is a particular honor to receive this incredible award from a fellow ‘home-grown’ organization that seeks to improve the lives of the same children and families that we do, in a different, but complementary way.
As mission-driven non-profits, we each serve in our own corners of our community, but our collective efforts are what makes a holistic, long-term impact on the most vulnerable families in our community. It is through our referring institutions, and our partnerships with organizations like the Please Touch Museum, that the families we serve survive, heal, and thrive.”
Other gala honorees included Stanford Thompson, Founder and Executive Director of Play On Philly, and the Giant Company. As the first Imagination Ball after a two-year COVID hiatus, the night featured a dynamic kaleidoscope of rich hues and patterns to spotlight the rich diversity of the children and families who visit the museum.
Funds raised during this year’s Imagination Ball will support the museum’s commitment to access for all families through their community benefit initiatives, which allows visitors to enjoy the museum for free or at a deeply reduced rate. The Please Touch Museum has become a critical resource for young families in the area looking to reengage their children in learning through play as they recover emotionally and financially from the effects of the pandemic.
Fred’s Footsteps staff, supporters, friends, and family were in attendance to celebrate all the wonderful work Christine does in our Greater Philadelphia community!
See photos from the evening here.
[Photo credit: Amit Gabai Photography]