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 School initiative. Every August, Backpack-A-Thon brings together thousands of corporate volunteers to stuff more than 40,000 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 needy children before the school year starts, getting local children ready and excited to learn.
