The 20th annual Cheers! for Brenner Children's Hospital event, held Thursday, Nov. 15, 2024, was a resounding success, raising over $430,000 to support vital programs and services at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children’s Hospital in Winston-Salem. Presented by Simply Southern at the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem, the milestone event brought together community members, supporters and former patients for an unforgettable evening of celebration and philanthropy. Simply Southern’s matching gift of up to $150,000 significantly amplified the impact of the funds raised.
Brenner Children's Hospital, a full-service children’s hospital serving western North Carolina and the first Level I pediatric trauma center in the state, provides critical medical care to over 140,000 children annually. Funds raised during Cheers! support patient care, education and innovative research that help ensure children in the region receive the best possible care.
The evening featured a seated dinner, specialty cocktails and auctions, including both silent and live components. Attendees also enjoyed a late-night silent disco, capping off the evening with a unique and celebratory experience.
"This year’s Cheers! was especially meaningful as we celebrated 20 years of community support and generosity," said Lisa Marshall, chief philanthropy officer and vice president at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. "The funds raised during this milestone event will have a lasting impact on the children and families who rely on Brenner Children’s Hospital. Together, we’ve built an incredible legacy of hope and healing."
Since its inception in 2005, Cheers! has raised over $3.4 million to support Brenner Children’s Hospital. This beloved annual event continues to play a vital role in ensuring that the hospital can provide life-saving care and innovative treatments to children in need.
“We are so grateful for everyone who supports this event each year which allows us to do amazing things for children every day,” said Alisa Starbuck, president of Brenner Children’s Hospital. “The impacts of this event are felt by families here in our own community and who come to us from across our region.”
For more information about Brenner Children's Hospital or to find ways to support its mission, please visit BrennerChildrens.org.
Media contact: Jenna Kurzyna, jkurzyna@wakehealth.edu