The Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children (ACFC) marked a significant achievement with a record-breaking $1.1 million raised at its fifth annual Ava’s Tree House Gala, held on November 1, 2024. This milestone event, which attracted 475 guests, will fund vital social, emotional, and financial support services for Arizona families battling pediatric cancer.
Presented by Desert Mountain Health and Desert Cove Recovery, the gala also celebrated ACFC’s 10th anniversary of helping families affected by childhood cancer. The evening featured a cocktail hour, a dinner, and live entertainment by Cole Swindell, a multi-platinum selling country music artist. Swindell’s high-energy performance capped off an unforgettable night, while attendees had the opportunity to bid on auction items, including a VIP Eagles experience and Ryder Cup tickets.
One of the night’s highlights was the presentation of the prestigious Goldy Award to Lyndsay and Ben Hayes, who were recognized for their exceptional support of ACFC’s mission. Thunderbirds Charities received the Decade of Excellence Award for their 10 years of invaluable partnership with the foundation. Chrisie Abramo, founder and president of ACFC, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.
“The success of this year’s Ava’s Tree House Gala was truly incredible. Raising over a million dollars and having nearly 500 people come together in support of our mission is beyond anything we could have imagined,” said Abramo.
The funds raised will directly support the foundation’s efforts to assist families affected by pediatric cancer, including financial aid, counseling services, and care coordination, which help ease the challenges families face while navigating their child’s cancer diagnosis and treatment.
ACFC is currently serving 500 families each year, but with the funds raised, it plans to expand its reach, aiming to support 1,200 families annually in the coming decade. In Arizona, a child is diagnosed with cancer every day, and the foundation’s resources are essential for ensuring these families receive the support they need.
For more information, visit azcancerfoundation.org.
