VEFC’s 11th Annual “Give Your Heart to a Child” Gala was held on May 5, 2007 at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner. Over 170 guests gathered to celebrate and support 28 years of service and outreach to over 16,000 at-risk children and youth in Virginia.

The evening would not have been possible without the many individuals that worked so hard to make the event such a success. We thank the corporate and individual sponsors for their generous financial support and the numerous volunteers who donated their time and talents to make this Cinco de Mayo a celebration honoring children and VEFC families!

Sabrina Squire, NBC-12 news anchor and VEFC Board member, was Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening. Sabrina’s charm and grace kept the evening’s program running smoothly. Honorary Chair and recipient of VEFC’s “Give Your Heart to a Child” award, Barbara Harrison of NBC-4’s ‘Wednesday’s Child’ series, in her gracious acceptance speech shared that every child deserves a place to call home, and organizations like VEFC are critical to ensuring that no child feels unwanted or unloved…ever.

The Latin Ballet of Virginia gave several breathtaking performances including a salsa dance which drew the audience to their feet and had everyone dancing!!

Mike Rowen, VEFC host family and Board member, did an amazing job getting the crowd lively and energized for bidding during the live auction. Several items such as the Capitol One suite at the Verizon Center for a Washington Nationals or Wizards game, an autographed Washington Capitols jersey and an autographed Santana Moss football were big hits among the generous bidders in the crowd!

The proceeds from the gala will go to support and expand our host home shelter programs throughout the Commonwealth. VEFC’s invaluable host families offer a priceless gift to children in need. Without their generous gift of love and care, VEFC would not be able to extend its mission of service to those children and youth who need our hearts the most.