Top Comedian Brings Laughs—and Impact—to Stand Up for Children

More than 350 guests filled The Post Oak Hotel on March 27 for an unforgettable evening of laughter and philanthropy at CHILDREN AT RISK’s annual Stand Up for Children event, raising an impressive $300,000 to support children across Texas.

Beloved Houston personality Khambrel Marshall returned as emcee and auctioneer, keeping the crowd engaged as bidding soared during both the silent and live auctions. Guests also tried their luck with raffle tickets for a coveted mystery cooler packed with prizes.

The high-energy night featured Emmy Award-winning comedian Ian Karmel, whose performance brought humor and heart to a cause dedicated to improving the lives of Texas children. Event chairs Doe and Henry Florsheim, Rusha and Jay Jayasuriya, and Nina and Clint Rand were applauded for leading a successful and impactful evening.

Taking the stage, Dr. Bob Sanborn, President and CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK, delivered a powerful reminder of the organization’s mission to tackle the root causes of child poverty and inequality through research, advocacy, and public policy. Sanborn had the crowd shouting out their support by saying For the Children multiple times creating momentum for the nights message. State Representative Senfronia Thompson reinforced with passion that message, highlighting the critical need for continued legislative action on behalf of Texas children especially the need to stop human trafficking.

The ballroom was beautiful with centerpieces courtesy of H-E-B, setting the stage for a night that was purpose-driven.

The evening opened with an invocation by Jackson Rand and Dylan Rand, adding a personal touch to the program. Highlights of the live auction included a dinner with Dr. Bob at Perseid that sold out in less than a minute for 12 couples to sign up and a Tequila Ley 925 tasting with Hector Villarreal from Lucho along with gift certificates to his store sold twice to increase the funds for the night. It closed on a high note as Ian Karmel took the stage, leaving guests laughing before the raffle winner was announced to enthusiastic applause.

Seen in the crowd: Ellen Sanborn, John and Jenny Seo, Cynthia Wolff, Courtney and Zac Harmon, George Connelly and Evelyn Leightman, Beth Wolff, Bethany Buchanan, Jeannie Chandler, Lily and Charles Foster, Katherine Smith and Paul Castro, Suzan and Jeremy Samuels Shaina Perry and Jeremy Ross, Claire and Wilson Lam, Chris Wallace, Joann and Dan Longoria, Shawn and Donald Bowers, John Glover.

MEDIA CONTACT

Ellie Francisco
ellie@franciscoandco.com
713-825-5708

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Join us for our 2027 Stand Up for Children signature event! Contact Nely Sanchez at nsanchez@childrenatrisk.org to learn about sponsorship opportunities.

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