The day was cold but hearts were warmed at the YWCA Central Alabama’s eighth annual KIDS Korner Luncheon, held on February 19, 2015 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. 

Thanks to the generosity of the more than 550 guests, $136,450 was raised to support KIDS (Kids in Distress) Korner, the YW’s nationally accredited child development program for children of homeless families. The theme of the luncheon, a project of the Junior Board, was “Love an Angel.”

Those in attendance were moved by the story of Lila, who after joining the YW staff as chef in 2012, learned all about the YWCA’s programs and realized she could benefit from them. She found the help she needed to leave her abusive husband and forge a new life for herself and her two daughters, who attend KIDS Korner.

The YW has played a fundamental role in responding to the needs of homeless children since 1989 when it opened KIDS Korner, and the curriculum is uniquely designed to provide extra love and attention. A survey of shelters for homeless families revealed that one of the biggest needs was child care during the day so that parents could work or seek employment. KIDS Korner provides a safe, loving environment for the children to laugh, play and grow.

The event would not have been possible without the leadership of co-chairs Annemarie Axon and Jeris Gaston and the members of their hardworking committee: Melissa Baker, Nancy Biggio, Katie Britt, Mary Kathryn Bryant, Rebecca Eubanks, Rachel Fry, Susie Gaston, Brenda Hackney, Laura Jackman, Stephanie Mays, Lauren Pearson, Lacey Scott, Tanya Shunnara, Tracy Sproule, Erin Stephenson, Shannon Stewart, Kelly Taylor, Carrie Walthall, Ann Bailey White and Jennifer Willings.

A big YW thank you goes to our dedicated table hosts and our generous sponsors, including presenting sponsor Brookwood Medical Center and hope sponsor Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC. Other sponsors are: Ard Contracting, Inc.; Belk, Inc.; Bridgeworth Financial; Butler Snow; Harbert Management Corporation; PNC; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama; Saginaw Pipe Company, Inc.; Vulcan Materials Company; First Commercial Bank; Revenue Discovery Systems; Sirote & Permutt, P.C.; Vulcan Industrial Contractors; Yates Development and IBERIABANK.

If you or your organization would like to support KIDS Korner or get involved with the YWCA, please click here.