Events
Activities for Every Group in Every Season
Poverty is a year-round condition. Plus young children outgrow essentials like clothes, toys and books pretty quickly. So our mission at Cradles to Crayons isn’t based on a “one and done” philosophy. We undertake many initiatives each year to serve kids and families all year long.
Our Signature Events
Un-Gala

Our Gear Up for Winter signature event, the Un-Gala, brings families together to have fun and give back. Each winter, volunteers – ages 5 to 95 – gather to sort and pack everyday essentials – like hats, gloves, scarves, and more – that bring warmth to thousands of children in need.
Many children will struggle to stay warm this season in our harsh climate. The Un-Gala Brings together hundreds of volunteers, primarily families, to provide children in need with warm winter essentials through a day of fun and impactful service.
Backpack-A-Thon

Our corporate supporters are critical to the success of this signature event for our Ready for Learning initiative. Every August, Backpack-A-Thon brings together thousands of corporate volunteers to stuff tens of thousands of backpacks with school supplies.
At this high-energy event, volunteers from various corporate partners stuff backpacks assembly-line style – with friendly competition encouraged! Our Service Partners then pick up the backpacks and distribute them to children before the school year starts, getting local children ready and excited to learn.