Lauren Kiesling’s long-time commitment to children brought her to Child Crisis Arizona in 2013. She is the benefit co-chair for The Friends of Child Crisis Arizona Gala, a Child Crisis Arizona board member and volunteered at the Phoenix Emergency Children’s Shelter.
When she is not at Child Crisis Arizona, Lauren is busy raising her beautiful 14-month-old daughter Eleanor and planning The Friends of Child Crisis Arizona 2016 Annual Benefit Gala – Glitz and Glamour: A Swingin’ Soiree.
Lauren has always held children close to her heart, especially children in need. After graduating from college in Columbia, Missouri, Lauren moved to the East Coast with her husband and found a children’s organization to volunteer with. After eight years in New York and Washington, D.C., Lauren and her husband moved to Scottsdale. Once again, Lauren researched children’s organizations to get involved with and she found Child Crisis Arizona. “It’s humbling, inspiring and fulfilling. You see firsthand how resilient kids really are – some of them come from the most horrific situations, but a few weeks at the shelter surrounded by peers and the love of the staff, you see the sparkle in their eyes start to show up again. Volunteers give their time, but what volunteers get in return is so much greater,” says Lauren.
While Lauren loved her time spent at the shelter, she was always looking for more opportunities to give. In an effort to use her professional event planning skills, Lauren joined The Friends of Child Crisis Arizona. The Friends of Child Crisis Arizona is a dedicated group of women who support Child Crisis Arizona and host the annual Gala. “I love being a part of such an amazing group that all share the same passion of wanting to better the lives of Arizona’s children. We all come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, but everyone has something special to contribute – it’s inspiring!” says Lauren.
This year, Lauren and The Friends have an amazing Roaring 20s themed Gala planned. Guests will get to experience dinner, dancing, live entertainment and a silent and live auction, all while supporting the children of Child Crisis Arizona. “From the moment the reception begins, this Gala is so much FUN! However, we work hard to keep the perspective of why we’re there and who we are raising money for. The live auction is amazing to witness – so many incredible items, even a Cadillac that was donated. The energy is palpable,” shares Lauren.
Witnessing all of their hard work come together is exciting, but after becoming a mom, Lauren’s favorite part about planning the Gala has changed to a few days after the event when she gets the total of how much money was raised. “Being a mom has put all of this into such a different perspective. I can’t imagine the stress that some parents face not knowing if they will be able to fill their child’s tummy or to wonder if they will have enough money for rent. So many people struggle, and I just hope that we continue to get the word out about the amazing services provided at Child Crisis Arizona. Together we can do so much to help families who need it,” explains Lauren.
Tickets are still available for the Glitz and Glamour Gala on Saturday, February 27 at the Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Tickets are $300 per person and can be purchased online at, friends child crisis arizona-gala.
