Disco Fever! Annual Benefit & Auction Highlight
Our Annual Benefit & Auction was a night to remember—full of glitz, groove, and generosity—with over $210,000 raised by our incredible sponsors and guests to support Youth Challenge’s mission.
The party was on April 5 at the Aviator Event Center, where guests enjoyed stunning views of planes and NASA Glenn Research Center. DJ Jaime Kravitz of The Energy Producer kept the rhythm alive with music that had everyone feelin’ the beat.
Our fund-a-need program was a heartfelt highlight, showcasing the power of YC’s team sports. Dressed in their grooviest attire, YC CEO Chris Garr and alum Bob Vitko served as emcees, sharing how team sports give a competitive outlet to those who might not otherwise have athletic opportunities. Youth Challenge offers teams such as powerlifting, goal ball, sled hockey and more. Athletes of the Year Vinny and James, boccia star George Shepherd and his father and ramp operator Matt Shepherd, as well as long-time participant Gabe shared their experiences in Team Sports. Former volunteer and current volunteer mom, Katie Viskocil, spoke about how her sons, Sam and Jake, have built meaningful friendships with participants through Sports Showdowns. Megan Smith highlighted the strong collaboration and heart of Team YC’s staff. Finally, participant parent Rachel Smith shared how the power of inclusion at YC has empowered her son, Immanuel, to thrive.
Through the silent auction, bidders got down and got their groove on, scoring dazzling prizes like golf foursomes, vacation getaways and dining experiences. to keep their dance energy fueled.
Dani Marinucci of DAM Fine Art donated her time creating an amazing art piece and finishing it live. It was auctioned off to lucky winners Rhonda & Mike Brennan! And of course, the disco lights shone brightest on our $10,000 Cash Raffle and Art Raffle! Big congrats to our lucky winners: Sheila Patterson ($7,500) and Dan Fronczak ($2,500) for the Cash Raffle, and Maddi Steimle, shining star of the Art Raffle!
We’re still feeling the rhythm of the night and the joy of knowing your support helps us keep the good times rolling for young people with physical disabilities and teen volunteers in Northeast Ohio. Thank you for helping us stay alive and shining bright!
Youth Challenge would love to thank its far-out sponsors!
PLATINUM PLUS SPONSORS
- First Federal Lakewood
- Oatey Company
PLATINUM SPONSORS
- BakerHostetler
- National Safety Apparel
GOLD SPONSORS
The Kalt Manufacturing Company
Stacy & Steve Nock
The Nock & Son Company
Nordson Corporation
The Sherwin-Williams Company
SILVER SPONSORS
- Community West Foundation
- The Coticchia Family
- Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities
- Mike’s Kids
- Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough
- Premise Solutions
- Reese Pharmaceutical
ENTERTAINMENT | The School of Rock-Cleveland
BAR | Barb & Charlie Koch
TECHNOLOGY | OneLink Technical Solutions
FUND-A-NEED | The Krueger Group
TRANSPORTATION| Brunswick AutoMart
