“Canceling our event simply wasn’t an option. The parents we serve show up every day and night for their exceptional kids — and through David’s Refuge — we will all continue to show up for them.” said Christine Corbett, director of philanthropy, David’s Refuge. “Caregivers need our love and support now more than ever. This year’s Taste of David’s Refuge may look a bit different, but will accomplish so much for our families. There’s so much work to be done.”
This year’s event will have a very different feel from year’s past. Cumulus Radio has stepped up as the media sponsor with Beth Coughlin, vice president/market manager of Cumulus Radio Station Group being recognized as one of the honorary chairs.
The virtual event will be broadcast over all Cumulus Media properties, including WNTQ 93Q, WAQX 95X, WSKO The Score and The Rebel Rocks.com, as well as their digital, streaming and website platforms, which will reach people in all of the United States.
“It is amazing to think that our friends, families and donors from anywhere in the country will be able to participate for the first time this year! It is truly a silver lining for our organization” says Kate Houck, executive director of David’s Refuge.
This first time virtual event, will offer guests the ability to participate by listening to the stations, and social and digital platforms.
Throughout the live program, 5 to 7 p.m., listeners will be able to hear more about the David Refuge’s mission and the families that are served. Participants can make a monetary donation online, sign up to donate monthly or bid on great auction items—all from the comfort of their home. Simply text, tastewithatwist, to 24375 to register.
“This year’s unique multi media event is exciting in that it’s not limited to a one night fundraising event. We will be running a four week campaign which will tell the stories of the caregivers served by this mission, with a huge finale on air and digitally on Sept. 11.
Cumulus Media is offering their full support to reach literally thousands and is thrilled to help!” said Beth Coughlin.
The annual Taste of David’s Refuge event raises awareness and funds for services offered to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening illnesses. Services include respite weekends, resources, special events, dinner programs and more.
Like most organizations, David’s Refuge has experienced changes and setbacks through COVID-19.
Restrictions around group gatherings and the special consideration needed for the medically fragile community the organization serves have forced the agency to modify services. Newly created COVID-19 services include:
Meal reimbursement: providing a meal to all caregivers near and far. Over 300 families served since March! Goal to open another round in August.
Care packages delivered right to over 350 doorsteps since March.
Newly created Caring Team put in place to empower and support our most vulnerable caregivers who need us most.
Creation of a Resource Page to provide a one-stop-shop for resources that support caregivers.
New Monthly Wellness Webinar Series: A great addition and support to caregivers across the country!
Inclusion and diversity initiatives aligning with school districts that have minority populations to intentionally serve more caregivers who have not participated.
All of these are now in addition to the respite weekend program, which is scheduled to reopen soon.
The completely reworked service is compliant with COVID-19 regulations.
“The funding from The Taste with a Twist will support the remaining 175 respite weekends scheduled for 2020 and ensure a strong start to 2021,” Houck said, “the one thing we can do for our families right now is to remain strong and viable so that once things are back to normal we are ready and able to serve.”
David’s Refuge works to provide respite, resources, and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions where they will be refreshed, restored and renewed in their role as caregivers.
The organization has a vision to become a community nationally recognized for empowering caregivers to lead their families with strength and grace.
David’s Refuge was started by Warren and Brenda Pfohl in honor of their son David, who was born Nov. 2, 1988.
He was a typical, healthy child who lived life to the fullest. In February 1997, David began to have difficulty seeing. Within a matter of weeks, he lost all of his central vision and some of his peripheral.
David was soon diagnosed with Batten Disease, a rare progressive, incurable disease. David battled Battens for thirteen years until he passed in 2009. David’s Refuge was formed in honor of David to encourage parents to keep pressing on.