Member Event: Kids ‘n Kinship 5th Annual Gala

Encouraging a child to go the distance and realize their dreams is crucial to their success. By becoming a positive adult role model, you can brighten a child’s future. And in the process, your life can be changed for the better. For 44 years, the gold medal-worthy efforts of Kids ‘n Kinship has transformed the lives of more than 3,250 Dakota County youth. Research has shown that quality mentoring programs are associated with helping young people navigate through life’s experiences and challenges. A growing body of research has shown that mentoring can be effective; that a meaningful relationship with an adult is an important factor in a child’s healthy development.1 On Sunday, September 25, 2016, Kids ‘n Kinship is inviting the community to go for the gold and help area youth reach for their dreams by supporting its mentor program. Help celebrate thousands of successes during its 5th annual gala at Brackett’s Crossing in Lakeville. Kids ‘n Kinship (www.kidsnkinship.org) is a strong mentor organization serving Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Lakeville and Rosemount. A non-profit, tax exempt, 501(C)(3) organization, it matches individuals, couples and family volunteer mentors with youth in need. Among the highlights of this year’s gala will be a guest appearance from 2012 Paralympic gold medalist and local resident Mallory Weggemann. She will appear fresh off her competition in the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The first-class event, featuring Home Federal Market President Scott Swenson as Master of Ceremonies, will also include improvisational and interactive comedy by ComedySportz Twin Cities and music by guitarist Dale O’Brien. The elegant but fun milestone gala will also feature a meal prepared by an award-winning chef, craft beer and wine cork pulls, and a silent auction which includes a Duluth getaway trip, wine tasting basket, sporting event tickets and wonderful dining gift cards. The celebration will include moving testimonials from a mentee, their parent and their mentor. Kids ‘n Kinship will also present three awards at the event: The Heart of Kinship Award will be presented to John Elder; the Community Partner Award, to Think Mutual Bank; and the Friend of Kinship Award, to the Shakopee Jaycees.