By Britt Moore, Director of Communications

Sometimes, the biggest acts of kindness start with a simple idea.

For 10-year-old Andrew Knudsen, that idea became a community fundraiser that raised more than $12,000 for Raise the Future and the youth and families we serve.

What began as a classroom project quickly grew into something much bigger. After learning more about the challenges many young people in foster care face, Andrew decided he wanted to make a difference. He approached his father, Raise the Future Board Member and Las Vegas Councilman Brian Knudsen, with a goal: help youth in foster care and raise awareness about the importance of connection, support, and belonging.

Andrew chose Raise the Future as the beneficiary of his efforts and got to work.

On May 28, community members gathered at 18bin in downtown Las Vegas to support Andrew's vision. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed food, activities, and time together while learning more about Raise the Future's mission to help youth in foster care build lasting connections with caring adults and access critical support services.

One of the highlights of the event was seeing Andrew take center stage to share why the cause mattered to him. His passion and determination inspired everyone in attendance and served as a powerful reminder that age is never a barrier to making a meaningful impact.

The event also received support from community partners, including a special appearance by Stomper, the A's mascot, who brought smiles and excitement to children and families throughout the evening.

By the end of the fundraiser, Andrew and his supporters had raised more than $12,000 to help further Raise the Future's work in Nevada.

For more than 25 years, Raise the Future has supported youth and families across Nevada by helping young people build lasting relationships with caring adults and providing services that continue long after adoption. The funds raised through Andrew's event will help ensure youth have access to the connections and support they need to thrive.

We are incredibly grateful to Andrew, his family, the event sponsors, community supporters, and everyone who contributed to making the evening a success.

Andrew's fundraiser was more than a community event. It was a reminder that one person's compassion can inspire an entire community to come together and create meaningful change.

To support youth in foster care and help create lasting connections, consider making a donation here.