In Jefferson City, we serve around 300 kids a year. Some of these kids need housing; some are at the Boys and Girls Homes every single night. Sometimes we get a call from the schools about a kid who needs meals or is in a really tough situation. We are grateful that you have helped us reach out to these kids and help them change their trajectories.
It was an incredible experience to gather in person again for the Jefferson City Art Auction. There was a positive charge in the room as we were finally able to connect together, gaining momentum in our fight to end childhood homelessness.
Over 300 guests and volunteers gathered with one mission - making a difference in the lives of homeless and at-risk kids in Jefferson City and around the world.
This event wouldn't have been possible without the help of talented artists, local businesses, and HALO supporters. They helped put together Silent and Live Auction packages that were competitively bid on throughout the night.
The evening's program kicked off with words from our COO Nicole Gerken, who handed things off to Honorary Co-Chairs, Kirk, and Libby Farmer. Kirk moved all of us with his impassioned charge in support of HALO. Kirk and Libby have made a huge impact at HALO with their hearts and generosity, and we were honored to hear why they have supported HALO from the beginning.
Following Kirk and Libby Farmer, HALO Founder Rebecca Welsh shared about the power love has in changing the future for HALO kids around the world.
"HALO is a place where kids can plant roots, and with a little water, sunshine, and guidance, they grow into who they were meant to become."
We all learned about HALO youth, Ziere, and how he is Defying the Odds. If you missed it, be sure to watch Ziere's story. It will inspire and challenge you.
Following Ziere's story, Honorary Co-Chairs Lt. Governor Mike & Claudia Kehoe took the stage and presented Ziere with a special award recognizing him for his perseverance in defying the odds and serving as a leader to his peers.
"The truth about these kids is that most of them bounce from place to place until one day, they end up incarcerated or worse. This is not a life for any child. It is up to us to make sure this doesn't happen. It is up to us to give them what we all had, a chance, the foundation of family, a safe place, and a real shot at life. HALO has a plan for children like this. HALO is not just a program. It's the foundation of a family because that is how you break the cycle."-Lt. Governor Mike Kehoe
We were completely awed as generous guests opened their hearts and pocketbooks to further the mission of HALO. Together we were able to raise $150,000 and counting to help homeless and at-risk kids in Jefferson City and around the world.
Finally, we celebrated a night filled with inspiration and generosity with music from the Cherry Pistols. We danced the night away and left feeling encouraged and challenged to continue fighting to be the foundation of a family for children without one.
If you missed the chance to donate at the event, there is still time to help us meet our Fund a Need goal!
You can give today to continue helping HALO make a difference.
The auction would not have been possible without our generous and supportive 2023 HALO Art Auction sponsors, event partners, and volunteers!
