Big Hearts for Big Kids marks a successful return to in-person performance

“Just the energy and the love that was in the room on Saturday night is really hard for me to describe. The number of people who stopped to chat with me in between things, who came forward wanting to find ways to help out more. It was really incredible and heartwarming.”

Wald adds that this is just another example of the incredible support the community has shown for the shelter.

“People have taken the time to really understand how we work, and understand the impact that we are having. And in conversations, I hear that from people who say they understand the need for us to be here.”

It was the first time the event was held in front of a live, in-person audience since 2019. COVID-19 restrictions forced the fundraiser to not be held last year, while an online show took place in 2020.

Wald says money raised on Saturday night will be used solely for operational expenses at the youth emergency shelter.

“It helps pay for groceries, it helps pay for utilities, it also helps with our front-line staff and with wages and training. Just a number of things that are not normally funded. It truly does make sure that our doors are open and that we are here.”

Wald says success like this tells them that they are doing something right and that people see the importance of the shelter and the work done by its staff.

Wald is also grateful to Tenille Townes and her family and the performers that were in attendance on Saturday for helping make the event such a success.

It was Townes who first came up with the idea for Big Hearts for Big Kids back in 2010.

by Jeff Henson