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A sold-out benefit concert raised $194,000 for efforts to prevent child abuse and support affected families in Alexandria on Feb. 1.
The Center for Alexandria’s Children held its Banding Together Gala at the Durant Center, featuring performances by Blue North and Guilty Ghost. The concert concluded the organization’s HeartWork Annual Campaign.
Support came from 85 annual sponsors, including 43 local businesses. CAC Executive Director Giselle Pelaez said the funding will sustain programs focused on abuse prevention, intervention and family education.
During the gala, CAC’s board of directors presented retired Judge Constance Frogale with the Outstanding Dedication to Children Award.
Campagna Center CEO Tammy Mann and former CAC board member Judy Harmatz received Champion for Children awards recognizing their contributions to Alexandria’s children and families.
Board Chair Melissa Riddy said the honorees embody the community’s commitment to supporting children and that CAC’s work depends on their dedication and continued collaboration from others.
Pelaez stressed that child abuse affects families regardless of income, education or ethnicity and urged the community to remain involved in making Alexandria safer for children.