Brian Stokes Mitchell, Lillias White, and More Set For YOU GOTTA BELIEVE Anniversary Gala
Performers also include Ainsley Melham, Anika Larsen, Charlotte d'Amboise, Liz Larsen, Tony Yazbeck, and more.
You Gotta Believe, the New York City-based, national organization that specializes in finding permanent families for young adults, teens, and pre-teens in foster care, announced details surrounding their highly-anticipated 30th Anniversary Gala, which will take place on Monday, May 4 at Guastavino's. The milestone celebration will be hosted by stage and screen star Ta'Nika Gibson and feature unforgettable performances from Ainsley Melham, Anika Larsen, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Charlotte d'Amboise, Lillias White, Liz Larsen, Tony Yazbeck, and more.
This year's honorees are Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley Jackson, longtime supporters of the organization, whose tremendous contributions have helped raise awareness and funds for You Gotta Believe for nearly two decades.
“This is a momentous occasion for You Gotta Believe as we celebrate 30 Years of creating forever families for older youth in foster care. The unwavering commitment of our families and the generosity of our supporters are the foundation of our mission's longevity and impact. Seth and James's ongoing dedication has contributed tremendously to our success, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership and steadfast belief in this work.” Jennifer Pinder, Executive Director
"Instead of telling older foster youth that they are ‘unadoptable' which was the norm, You Gotta Believe finds loving homes for them...no matter their age. Wait until you see these beautiful families that have been formed by the amazing work they have done,” said honorees Rudetsky and Jackson. “We are so proud that we have helped them with their mission and so humbled that we are receiving this recognition from them on their 30th anniversary. And PS, we couldn't help but put our hand in entertainment-wise. Prepare yourselves for amazing performances!"
There are currently 400,000 youth in the US foster care system and almost 20,000 are at risk of aging out without a permanent family. Without a stable home and people to lean on, these youth face significant challenges, including homelessness, poor health, and poverty. The resources, emotional support, and social connections that a family provides are crucial for upward mobility and personal success. That's why You Gotta Believe is dedicated to finding loving homes for pre-teens, teens, and young adults in foster care.
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