Jan. 25, 2018

14th Annual Drive the Dream Gala

Singer-songwriter, author and actress Jewel spoke and provided entertainment

The 14^th Annual Drive the Dream Gala at the Arizona Biltmore on Jan. 13 netted a record of $1.4 million-plus to benefit Childhelp. The Phoenix-based nonprofit is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse. Funds from the party will lend support to Childhelp programs and services in Arizona, including the Childhelp Children’s Advocacy Center of Arizona, dedicated to the late Linda Pope.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria presented the sold-out gala, which was co-chaired by Ivy Ciolli, Erika Williams and Chrissy Sayare. The theme they selected was “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” celebrating a child’s journey from hardship to hope through Childhelp.

A horse-drawn Cinderella carriage greeted guests as they arrived for the Saturday evening affair, and many of the female guests carried out the theme by wearing Cinderella- and Disney-inspired gowns.

Cameron Mathison, Entertainment Tonight team correspondent and weekend co-anchor, best known for his role on All My Children, served as the evening’s emcee. The 14^th annual Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala awardees included John Stamos, Childhelp Lifetime Achievement Award; Carolyn and Craig Jackson, Childhelp Spirit of the Children Award; and Brand Drivers, Childhelp Nellie Jackson Award.

Guests at the soiree were treated to entertainment by four-time Grammy nominee, singer-songwriter, author and actress Jewel, as well as CeeLo Green, the Philip Myers Band and Christopher Macchio.

In addition to Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, Phoenix Raceway Charities, NFP, Pacific Life, Penn Mutual, Brand Drivers, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Premier Strategy Group and Jackson Family Foundation provided corporate sponsorship.

PHIL GUDENSCHWAGER PHOTOGRAPHY/COURTESY CHILDHELP