WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the leaves turn and the autumn season settles over the nation’s capital, preparations are well underway for a premier gathering dedicated to the champions of America’s youth. This November, the renowned national advocacy organization Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) will host "A National Celebration of Joy," a prestigious gala established to honor exceptional changemakers, recognize passionate youth advocates, and celebrate the powerful partnerships that continually drive the organization’s multifaceted work forward on behalf of children across the United States.
The high-profile event is scheduled to take place at the Historic Howard Theatre, a cultural landmark situated at 620 T Street NW in Washington, D.C., bringing together prominent voices, philanthropists, and community advocates for an evening of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment. The gala’s realization and success are made possible by a distinguished national host committee composed of influential business executives, nonprofit leaders, and community trailblazers whose invaluable support directly fuels CDF’s core mission.
By lending their extensive expertise, professional networks, and philanthropic commitment, these leaders actively contribute to the organization’s expanding capacity to develop and implement transformative programs. Furthermore, their dedication helps champion robust public policies designed to protect youth, ensure their safety, and foster environments where they can thrive. Through their active participation, these champions ensure that the broader movement for child well-being continues to gain crucial momentum at both the local and national levels.
Event details for the upcoming gathering have been officially confirmed by organizers. The National Celebration of Joy will take place on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Festivities will commence with a formal dinner and program beginning promptly at 7:00 p.m. at the Historic Howard Theatre, providing an intimate yet vibrant setting to honor those who have dedicated their time and resources to uplifting the next generation.
Behind this ambitious undertaking is a diverse and accomplished group of individuals who make up the National Celebration of Joy Host Committee. Spanning various industries, geographic regions, and sectors of public service, these members represent the broad coalition required to sustain long-term advocacy work. The committee is co-chaired by Dakarai I. Aarons, Founder of the Aarons Family Giving Fund in California, and Zack Boyers, Chairman and CEO of U.S. Bank Impact Finance in Missouri.
Other esteemed members serving on the host committee include Annie Donovan, President and CEO of RDF in Washington, D.C.; Bryan Beasley, Business Insurance Consultant with MMA in North Carolina; Dana Weston Graves, Market President for Sentara Health in Virginia; Daniel Welch, Managing Director at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management in Washington, D.C.; and Dan Kenney, Partner at Mitchell & Titus, LLP in Maryland.
The committee also features the spiritual and community leadership of the Rev. Dr. Don Darius Butler, Pastor of The Concord Fellowship in Alabama; Durecia Moorer, Managing Partner and CMO of ABCD & Company in Maryland; Gail Holmes and Michael R. Holmes, Chairman Emeritus of RX Outreach in Missouri; Lan Bentsen, Executive Producer of The Bentsen Blueprint in Texas; Drs. LaToya and Starsky Wilson, President and CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund in Maryland; and W. Clay Grubb, Chief Executive Officer of Grubb Properties in North Carolina.
The leadership team at the Children’s Defense Fund has expressed deep gratitude to these dedicated individuals for their steadfast partnership and ongoing support. The organization emphasizes that the contributions of the host committee go far beyond a single evening of celebration, serving as a vital anchor for the year-round initiatives that seek to dismantle systemic barriers facing children and families.
"As we reflect on the progress we’ve made and recommit to the work ahead, we will honor the collective effort required to ensure every young person can grow up with dignity, hope, and joy," the organization stated in a recent release regarding the gala. "We deeply appreciate the unwavering dedication of these leaders, whose partnership is vital to realizing our critical mission."
For members of the press interested in covering the event, requesting further information, or coordinating interviews with representatives of the Children’s Defense Fund and members of the host committee, inquiries can be directed to John Henry, CDF Media Relations Manager, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 708-646-7679. Additional updates regarding the program, honorees, and ticketing details will be shared through the organization’s official communication channels as the November date approaches.
