Youth Challenge Says ‘Cheers to 40 Years’

Youth Challenge Board of Trustees Student Interns Zaria N. Turton, Early College High School, Lorain County Community College ’17 (Youth Challenge participant) and Madison R. Noren, Bay High School ’17 (Youth Challenge volunteer).

Youth Challenge Board of Trustees Student Interns Zaria N. Turton, Early College High School, LCCC ’17 (Youth Challenge participant) and Madison R. Noren, Bay High School ’17 (Youth Challenge volunteer).

Leisure suits, go go boots and miniskirts were spotted throughout the crowd of more than 300 supporters to help Youth Challenge celebrate turning the big 4-0.

The Westlake non-profit’s Annual Benefit & Auction “Celebrating 40 Years!” was held on April 16 at Ariel International Center in Cleveland.

Guests helped raise over $200,000 to fund adapted programs for children with physical disabilities and their teen volunteer partners. This support allows Youth Challenge to reach hundreds of children in the Greater Cleveland community, providing them with opportunities to play sports, make friends, and embrace their own unique abilities.

Mike and Colleen Harding

Partygoers enjoyed a fun, ‘70s themed evening with cocktails, food stations, silent auction and Napa Valley and Hilton Head vacation raffles. Tie-dye artwork created by YC participants and volunteers was on display and for sale. A special VIP champagne reception was held before the event for top sponsors.

Fred Koury, of Smart Business Network, was the Honorary Event Chairs. YC Trustees Tom Fraser, President & CEO of First Federal Lakewood and Ernie Vargo, Partner at BakerHostetler, were co-chairs of the event. Christy McGucken of Ernst & Young and Marcia Obrock of ShurTech Brands served as Auction Co-Chairs.

For more information, please visit youthchallengesports.com.