WASHINGTON, D.C. — In November 2026, the national advocacy organization Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) will host its highly anticipated gala, A National Celebration of Joy, at Washington, D.C.’s historic Howard Theatre. The landmark event has been established to honor prominent changemakers, elevate youth advocates, and celebrate the powerful partnerships that continually drive the organization’s ongoing mission on behalf of children across the United States.
As part of the evening’s festivities, CDF will present its highest organizational honor, the Marian Wright Edelman Advocate for Joy Award, to individuals and institutions that champion crucial policies, build lasting community power, and strengthen programs designed to dramatically improve the lives of children and youth. This prestigious accolade is named in honor of CDF Founder and President Emerita Marian Wright Edelman, whose lifelong dedication to youth advocacy has shaped generations of social policy and community action.
"The Marian Wright Edelman Advocate for Joy Award is CDF’s highest honor, recognizing servant leaders whose advocacy and partnership have made a demonstrable difference in the lives of children, young people, and families," said CDF President and CEO Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson. "This year, the award has been renamed in honor of our Founder and President Emerita, Marian Wright Edelman."
For this year’s gala, CDF has proudly announced that Casey Family Programs will be named as one of the distinguished award recipients. As a nationwide organization, Casey Family Programs stands as America’s largest operating foundation dedicated safely to reducing the need for foster care while simultaneously improving the overall safety, health, and long-term well-being of children and youth.
Established six decades ago in 1966 by United Parcel Service founder Jim Casey, the Seattle-based foundation operates with a deep commitment to transforming the child welfare landscape. Today, the organization is led by President and CEO William C. Bell, Ph.D. In his leadership role, Dr. Bell provides vital strategic direction for the foundation’s nine field offices located throughout the country, while leading a dedicated staff that works directly with youth and families navigating the complex public child welfare system.
The upcoming gala promises to be a memorable evening celebrating decades of progress, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to the nation’s youth. The formal event is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2026, beginning with a dinner and formal program at 7:00 p.m. at The Historic Howard Theatre, located at 620 T Street NW in Washington, D.C.
Reflecting on the profound impact of the foundation, Dr. Wilson praised Casey Family Programs for its visionary approach to child well-being and its historic partnership with CDF, qualities that make the institution a deeply fitting recipient of the award.
"It is our privilege to honor Casey Family Programs as the first institutional recipient of the Marian Wright Edelman Award," Dr. Wilson said. "For 60 years, Casey Family Programs has been building Communities of Hope to ensure more children grow up safely at home. Working in all fifty states, their mission is to provide and improve—and ultimately prevent the need for—foster care. Casey Family Programs is one of CDF’s most enduring institutional partners in advocacy, thought leadership, investment, and a shared commitment."
The shared journey between CDF and Casey Family Programs highlights a unified national effort to reform systems, elevate community voices, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive environment. Through decades of collaboration, both organizations have worked tirelessly to address systemic challenges, influence public policy, and secure a brighter future for the nation’s youth and families. As leaders, advocates, and community members gather at the historic Howard Theatre this November, the celebration will serve as both a recognition of past achievements and a renewed commitment to the ongoing work required to champion the rights and well-being of children everywhere.
