On September 27th, House of Ruth celebrated the generosity and impact of our donors, foundations, and government partners at our Annual Donor Reception. During the evening, we reflected on the powerful relationships that fuel our mission and honored the individuals and organizations that make a tangible difference in the lives of the women, children, and families we serve.
It was an evening filled with inspiration and joy. Duke Ellington School of the Arts student performers had us dancing and singing along. Program participants shared their journeys, bringing the mission to life.
We also celebrated the 3rd anniversary of our new facility for Kidspace Child and Family Development Center. Collectively, $100,000 was raised to support vital services—from multi-generational therapies to enriching music and literacy programs.



Our Annual Donor Reception is also an opportunity to honor the transformative partnerships and volunteer efforts that make a lasting impact every year. We proudly recognized the following individuals and organizations:
- Distinguished Service Award: Richard E. and Nancy P. Marriott Foundation, for their transformative philanthropy, especially supporting the multi-generational therapies at Kidspace.
- Community Partner Award: Deloitte, for their Impact Day event, providing resume writing, coaching, and makeovers to help female program participants kick-start their careers.
- Community Partner Award: Suited For Change, for decades of partnership outfitting women with professional attire, boosting their job readiness and confidence.
- Volunteer of the Year Award: FRESHFARM, for their five-year partnership bringing fresh produce and nutrition education to the kids and parents at Kidspace.
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Lowe’s Companies, Inc., for Red Vest Day with store #3256 and for a 2023 Hometowns Grant that supports community projects.
A special thank you to our event sponsor, Hogan Lovells. For several years, they have generously sponsored this meaningful gathering. Your continued support allows us to come together and recognize the impact we are creating, together.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Event Co-Chairs and Host Committee members! Your leadership, vision, and hard work were key to the success of this year’s event. Event Co-Chairs: Lou Cardenas, James Lumalcuri, Monica Y. Brame, and Stephanie & Adam Kushner
Host Committee: Caryl S. Bernstein; Thomasine Carter; Darryl E. Christmon and Arnita Hannon Christmon; Andrew and Ellen Kentz; Diane Lewis; Pamela M. Pinkett; Gina Schaefer and Marc Friedman; Julie Shroyer, MSW and David Shaw; Jane and Herb Stevens; Astrid Weigert, PhD



As we look to the future, we remain inspired by the generosity and dedication of our community. Together, we create opportunities for women, children, and families to break cycles of violence and houselessness—for them to live with safety, dignity, and hope. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. We look forward to seeing you next year!
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We invite you to revisit the celebration through the moments captured in a selection of photographs.