Outline:
A Night of Philanthropy and Purpose
On a Friday evening, the Folsom Lake College’s Harris Center became a hub of hope and generosity as Kids Helping Kids Sacramento hosted its 11th annual gala. This event, which took place after 7 p.m. and continued until around 11 p.m., brought together community members, students, and philanthropists to support families facing the challenges of pediatric cancer.
The gala was more than just an evening of celebration; it was a testament to the power of youth-driven initiatives. Among the attendees was Reece Hulse, a Del Campo High School student whose personal experience with hospitalization had shaped his perspective on the importance of community support.
Hulse shared a poignant memory from his childhood when his brother suffered a traumatic brain injury. The incident left a lasting impact on his family, and he witnessed firsthand the emotional and physical toll of extended hospital stays. “It’s a deep thing,” he said. “That’s kind of why we’re here and what we’re doing today.”
His journey from personal hardship to active participation in a charitable cause highlights the transformative effect of such programs. For Hulse, the experience became a source of motivation to make a difference in the lives of others.
The Mission Behind the Gala
Regan Johnson, the CEO of Kids Helping Kids Sacramento, emphasized the significance of the event. She explained that the organization’s mission is rooted in both love for students and the sense of camaraderie among them. “You have high school students that are running a business here. It is not just a little activity. This is a business. We’re making real money,” she said.
The gala featured a variety of activities, including an auction, games, a raffle, and a live performance by country music artist Anne Wilson. These elements not only entertained guests but also contributed to the fundraising efforts that support families in need.
Johnson noted that the team sold 850 tickets for the event, each representing a potential catalyst for change. The funds raised go toward providing essential resources such as hotels, lodging, and food for children who are often overlooked during difficult times.
A Legacy of Giving
The program began at Del Campo High School in 2012 as a grassroots initiative aimed at helping a peer who was homeless. Since then, it has grown into a powerful movement, with students and teachers working together to create meaningful impact.
Michael Gordon, a teacher at Del Campo High School and director of the Center for Entrepreneurship, highlighted the transformation in students’ perspectives. “For the longest time, it used to be about how much money we want to spend,” he said. “To be honest with you, it’s now the transformation of my students’ hearts.”
This shift reflects a deeper commitment to empathy and service. Students are not only learning about business and leadership but also developing a strong sense of compassion and responsibility toward their community.
Looking Ahead
As the organization continues to grow, the focus remains on supporting various causes throughout the year. While the specific direction of future initiatives is yet to be determined, students involved in the program are already looking forward to what lies ahead.
Hulse reflected on the foundation of his desire to continue paying the love forward. “People that came to my side and were helping me and they gave me a helping hand, all those people I valued so much,” he said. “I just want to spend my time helping the people that need it most, like I needed.”
The story of Kids Helping Kids Sacramento is one of resilience, purpose, and the profound impact that young individuals can have on their communities. As the event concluded, the energy and dedication of the participants served as a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can lead to significant change.