Over 430 guests joined to support CHILDREN AT RISK’s Stand Up for Children at The Post Oak Hotel on Friday, March 28.  Event chairs Suzan and Jeremy Samuels and Beth Wolff were thrilled with the success of the event which raised $360,000.  Guests enjoyed Fred Armisen, Emmy Award-nominated comedian and actor, and Grammy-nominated musician, who brought his unique brand of humor to support the cause.

The evening was led again by Khambrel Marshall, as emcee and auctioneer.  President and CEO Dr. Bob Sanborn described CHILDREN AT RISK as a non-partisan research and advocacy nonprofit dedicated to understanding and addressing the root causes of child poverty and inequality. The statewide organization tackles the most pressing needs of Texas children and families. Their mission is to serve as a catalyst for change to improve children’s quality of life through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy. 

District 134 Representative Ann Johnson, a former Chief Human Trafficking prosecutor, current teacher, and small business owner, shared how tragic trafficking is and the critical need for people to be aware to address the issue.  

Table centerpieces were provided by H-E-B.  Guests mingled and purchased raffle tickets for items that included a his and hers package with beautiful earrings from Niara Jewelry.  Silent auction items generated even more funds, while the live auction had paddles flying to win the bid. Just before the appeal, everyone in the ballroom stood applauding the need to place our children first and make changes to make that happen.   

 The evening celebrated Community Honoree Sippi Khurana, M.D.  for her dedication to many causes in the community, especially those that impact families and children.  Khurana gave impassioned remarks that included statistics for Texas showing the importance of CHILDREN AT RISK’s research and advocacy, pinpointing the areas needed for change in health, education, and welfare of children. Her 3rd-grade daughter Seva gave a beautiful invocation to start the evening.   

Loud cheering erupted when Fred Armisen took the stage creating a buzz in the room, and he kept the crowd completely engaged and laughing non-stop with comedic bits and musical talents, including playing drums, guitar, and singing.