2023 Changing Lives Gala

2023 Changing Lives Gala Results!

At the Changing Lives Gala event on June 2nd, over 400 guests convened at The Jayhawk Club to help raise $390,000 to support Ballard’s vital services!

During the event, Ballard’s preschool students stole the show (and our hearts) when they were led into the event by the snappy snare beat of Ryan Pope’s drum (The Get Up Kids drummer). Ballard’s Movement Literacy & Creative Movement instructor, Jean Denny and guests also encouraged students to explore their creativity and clapped along as students recited a rhyme with Storyteller Priscilla Howe and her puppet Trixie.

Guests then welcomed incoming Family Stabilization Director, Katherine Ward to her new role, applauded the resilience of a Ballard grandparent, were moved by the many tributes to retiring CEO, Becky Price and were inspired by incoming CEO, Kyle Roggenkamp’s passion for the lifesaving services Ballard provides.

Roggenkamp presented the Brad Finkeldei Hero of the Year Award to the Neuman family – Matt and Alice Neuman and their children, Noah, Evan and Theo. This incredible family was recognized for volunteering, hosting days of service for youth, supporting Ballard’s staff with gifts and showering Ballard’s hardworking educators with appreciation!

Guests were also charmed and inspired by longtime Ballard Volunteer and Gala Emcee, Wint Winter, who gave his time, talent and “gift of gab” at the event. Winter spoke about being a Ballard volunteer as a pro-bono attorney and he encouraged others to step up and do whatever they could to help support Ballard.

After learning so much about what Ballard does to help elevate EVERYONE in our community, guests responded by raising so many paddles and giving so many generous donations that Volunteer Auctioneers Brian Hanni and Lester Edgecombe almost couldn’t keep up! What A Night!

Thank You To Everyone Who
Attended, Volunteered, Sponsored and Donated!

To access photos from the event please email [email protected]

Ballard Center Changing Lives since 1965 The Ballard Center partners with individuals and families to achieve stability through early childhood education and needs-based services by cultivating a strong network of organizations, businesses, and individuals dedicated to serving our community.
Newsletter Signup