OCC fundraiser ‘thanks’

Dear editor:

As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and that is especially true at Ouachita Children’s Center (OCC). This past Saturday (Feb. 18), the caring and compassionate “village” of Hot Springs came together to assist our emergency shelter for children in crisis by supporting and attending our Fourth Annual Mystic Krewe of Liberi charity ball! Fabulous music, talented entertainment, beads, costumes, great food and drink, a raffle, and silent auction brought our guests together for an evening of merriment with a purpose — to raise much needed funds for OCC!

What made this year especially meaningful was that our presenting sponsor was KYE-YAC — a philanthropic organization created and led by youths who believe that all kids deserve a chance to thrive in life! Their sponsorship helps OCC to do just that!

We had a fantastic committee that made the whole event a beautiful experience and we are forever grateful to Kim Edmonds, Michelle Harrison, Tracey Kinder, Michelle Ratcliff, Martha Rodgers, Kate Schaffer and Mike Tuohey for the many, many hours they volunteered. Thanks to all of our sponsors, providers and guests for this magical evening!

Our honorary chairs, David and Rachel Mangan, along with our court — Joey and Mara Godoy, Chappy and Susan Harper, John and Jordan Horner, Mike and Michelle Ratcliff, Scott and Sherry Smith, and Greg and Amy Whorton — are all good friends of OCC who exemplify what it means to care for children in crisis through their service and support. We all celebrated the crowning of our new queen and king — Susan Harper and Scott Smith.

The backing by our community — as demonstrated by those who joined our charity ball — gives OCC the much needed resources to care for traumatized youths. We are so grateful to be part of such a compassionate “village” that knows this is not only our community, but these are our children! Linda Ragsdale Executive director Ouachita Children’s Center