Most of us would agree that 2020 has been a difficult year. For children and youth living in foster care, the stress and emotional toll of the pandemic combined with widespread social unrest has, in many cases, exacerbated the challenges they already face. The Adoption Exchange’s leaders, staff, and volunteers know that fostering relationships for children is the most important part of the work we have been doing for 35 years – because these enduring connections give individuals the strength they need when facing a year like this one.

Our work would not be possible without the kindness and generosity of many community partners, volunteers, and financial supporters. For the past 32 years, The Adoption Exchange has hosted an annual gala to raise critical dollars needed to fund our programs and support our work: connecting children in foster care with caring adults, and supporting those connections so they last a lifetime. While we won’t be able to welcome 500 guests in person for the 33^rd annual event, we look forward to the opportunity to accommodate even more partners, friends, and supporters in a virtual setting.

We hope you will join us on Saturday, October 3^rd for the 33^rd Annual Adoption Exchange Gala, which will stream live at 6:00pm Mountain Daylight Time on Vimeo. You don't want to miss this! We'll be making an exciting announcement about our organization's future during the one-hour program.

Just like in previous years, the gala will feature a live auction, a silent auction, and a paddle raise. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our partners, the silent auction will feature a beautiful art section sponsored by the Masters Gallery. There will also be opportunities to bid on items such as jewelry from Kendra Scott, virtual or in-person wine tastings, an outdoor adventure at the Cabins at Bear River Lodge in Christmas Meadows, Utah...and many other exciting items!

For the 33rd Annual Gala, we are partnering with local restaurants and caterers to encourage viewers to celebrate with us in their own homes, either by themselves or in small groups.

We hope you will join us for the 2020 Virtual Gala Presented by Regal as together we create a new decade of impact and change for the children waiting in foster care and the adults who become stable forces in their lives. Learn more and register to participate!