Childhelp Shining Stars Gala to Light Up Washington Region in Support of Children in Need

MCLEAN, Va., April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Community leaders, philanthropists, and child advocates will gather for an unforgettable evening of purpose and impact at the Childhelp Shining Stars Gala on Saturday, April 18 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner in McLean, Virginia.

As one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofits dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse, Childhelp has saved millions of children through its comprehensive programs, including the Alice C. Tyler Village of Childhelp and the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline.

Co-chairschairs Mike Agrillo, John Heneghan, Gautam Ijoor, and Alison and Pete Santighian are hosting the annual gala to celebrate the power of community to protect children and restore hope to young lives affected by abuse and neglect. The evening will be emceed by beloved Washington media personality Tommy McFly, and will feature a special appearance by actor and entertainer John O’Hurley, known for his iconic role as J. Peterman on “Seinfeld.”

“At Childhelp, we believe every child deserves to grow up safe and loved,” says Chief Operating Officer Michael Medoro. “The Shining Stars Gala is more than a celebration. It’s a powerful reminder that when communities come together, we can protect vulnerable children and give them the chance to reclaim their futures.”

The evening will feature a cocktail reception, elegant dinner, and an inspiring program highlighting the impact of Childhelp’s work and the lives transformed through its services. Live music will be provided by Radio King Orchestra, offering a fun and entertaining experience. Additional performances throughout the evening will feature Prince Havely, a celebrated DC-area entertainer. Guests will also have opportunities to directly support Childhelp’s lifesaving programs. The celebration will continue with an after-party headlined by Prince Havely, joined by pianist Glenn Pearson and O’Hurley for a Rat Pack-style sing-along to close the evening.

“After we attended our first Shining Stars Gala, we had to keep helping. Childhelp has changed our whole family’s lives and perspective,” says Alison Santighian. “This gala supports creating safe spaces, virtual and physical, to prevent abuse and treat our most vulnerable children and families. It’s that simple.”

Every 15 seconds, a report of child abuse is made in the United States. Events like the Shining Stars Gala help ensure that when a child needs help, someone is there.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now, with auction items coming soon. For more information or to purchase tickets visit: Shining Stars Gala – Childhelp.

About Childhelp: Founded by Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson in 1959, Childhelp® has brought the light of hope and healing into the lives of more than 14 million children as a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping abused, neglected and at-risk children. Childhelp’s programs and services include residential treatment services, children’s advocacy centers, therapeutic foster care, group homes and child abuse prevention, education and training. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline serves children and adults nationwide 24/7 through phone, text and online chat. For more information, visit childhelp.org and follow Childhelp at facebook.com/childhelp, Instagram.com/childhelp.

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SOURCE Childhelp