Ignite the Nite 2018

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May 2018 View more

Photography by: Ron Hume Photography

KidsMatter’s Ignite the Nite gala was held Saturday, April 14 at Hotel Arista. The event featured a dinner theatre cabaret honoring retiring Executive Director IdaLynn Wenhold, who has spent the last 17 years at the helm of the nonprofit.

Community leaders and students filled the evening with stories and songs illustrating KidsMatter’s mission and Wenhold’s passion. “It truly embodied the love and commitment IdaLynn has shown this community,” Ignite the Nite producer Deborah Newman said. In addition to honoring Wenhold, the organization welcomed incoming CEO/Executive Director Kamala Martinez.

“It’s incredibly gratifying sharing everything KidsMatter has meant to me and the community. I’m grateful that so many people share the same passion and commitment,” says Wenhold. “We are all stronger when we work together as a village to raise healthy kids. My greatest joy has been bringing experts together to address issues and provide families with the support they need.”

In retirement, Wenhold is shifting her efforts to support orphanages and schools in Kenya and Guatemala.

“My next adventure mirrors KidsMatter’s efforts, by empowering kids from poverty to possibilities around the world.”