Members of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land: Vita Goodell, Kelly Sweet-Jensen, Pete Olson, Paul Barnett, Lori Bisewski, Cookie Joe, Greg Oelfke, Kevin Barker, Joni Stinger, Camille Edwards, Ruthanne
Mefford, Carlos Perez, Rhonda Peterson, Bayonie Arashi, Nick Landoski and John McMillen. (Photo courtesy of Dave Grice.)
Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) invites the community to embark on a night of wonder, courage, and storytelling at its 2026 “Where the Wild Things Are” Gala, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land. Inspired by Maurice Sendak’s beloved classic, the evening will celebrate the resilience and bravery of the children and families served by CAFB.
Rooted in the story’s timeless message of overcoming fears and discovering inner strength, the gala will highlight CAFB’s mission to help Strengthen the Voice of the Child, Heal the Hurt and Break the Cycle of Abuse and Neglect for children and families in Fort Bend and surrounding counties.
A Night Designed to Inspire
Guests will be transported into a whimsical, imaginative world complete with décor inspired by the land of the “Wild Things”, a whimsical dance performance by Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School, live and silent auctions, raffle, wine, spirits and gift card pulls, dinner and dancing to the tunes of DJ Love. Beloved emcee Michele Fisher is returning for her 14th year and will be joined by Jason Alexander who will lead an exciting live auction.
“Our gala theme reminds us that even in the face of life’s ‘wild things,’ children can discover courage, healing, and strength when surrounded with the right support,” said Ruthanne Mefford, CEO of Child Advocates of Fort Bend. “Funds raised allow us to provide children and families with the services, resources, and advocacy they deserve.”
Returning Presenting Sponsors Exchange Club of Sugar Land and OCuSOFT, Inc. are joined this year by EOG Resources and NRG WA Parish Plant, further strengthening community collaboration.
“As a service organization devoted to strengthening families and protecting children, we are proud to stand with Child Advocates of Fort Bend,” shared Juli Fournier, President of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. “This gala is more than an event — it’s an opportunity to change lives.”
You will be amazed at the incredible auction items we have to offer. Travel in the US to Colorado or venture to Ireland or Mexico. Stay close to home with stays in Austin, the Hill Country, or locally with an amazing Houstonian Hotel & Spa Package. Sports fans will love our Club Level Texans and Astros packages, signed Rockets jersey and numerous golf course choices. Exclusive Blanton’s Takara collection and two local tastings of wine and Bourbon. We have an experience for everyone!
Join Us for a Night That Makes a Difference
“Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and empowered,” Mefford emphasized. “Together, we can ensure that no child walks through their ‘wild things’ alone.”
Sponsorships range from $2,500 to $25,000, and individual reservations are $200.
For sponsorships or seating, contact Tarina Sheridan at 281‑344‑5109 or tsheridan@cafb.org.