With just 51 days until the Kentucky Derby, many were on the hunt for the perfect hat or fascinator to don at the track. But the real statement was their support for ending child abuse and neglect.
Our region’s most comprehensive children’s charity gave people a chance to look fabulous for Derby and feel great in the process. The fourth annual Hats On for Healing auction filled the Olmsted with hundreds of designer hats, including two items donated from Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Biles. Shoppers were not only looking for a great buy but also a way to help our community’s most vulnerable children.
“Kosair for Kids does incredible work for children in our community, so it’s exciting to be able to support their mission while also having fun at wonderful events like this,” said Susan Keller, Chair of the Kosair for Kids Hats On for Healing volunteer committee.
Whether through the Face It Movement, formed in 2013, or by funding forensic pediatricians, physicians, healthcare providers, and nonprofits specializing in prevention and intervention, Kosair for Kids has played a role in reducing instances of abuse and neglect. Proceeds from tonight’s Hats On for Healing auction benefit the Kosair Kids Child Abuse Prevention Fund.
“The sad reality is that 1 in 71 children in Kentucky is a victim of maltreatment. In Indiana, that number is 1 in 75 children. There is so much work to be done, and events like Hats On for Healing help us continue making progress towards ending child abuse and neglect,” said Marki Hartlage, Senior Director of Events and Branding at Kosair for Kids.
Organizers are still tallying the auction totals, but they expect to exceed their $60,000 goal for this important cause.