On October 4th, you can step into a night of inspiration and impact as guests gather at the Overland Park Convention Center for one of the most uplifting and purpose-filled evenings in Kansas City - the 14th Annual Hope Gala benefitting Braden’s Hope for Childhood Cancer.
This unforgettable evening brings together families, donors, and community leaders for a powerful celebration of progress. It’s an event where stories inspire, cancer research shines, and a united community drives change. The theme of this year’s Gala is ‘Hope in Color.’
“While gold represents childhood cancer awareness, we know every child brings their own color to the world,” shared Azure Miller, Chief Marketing Officer at Braden’s Hope. “This theme is a celebration of the vibrant hope and resilience within our community. It honors the children still fighting, those who are survivors, and the angels who fight with us in spirit.”
What began as a small gathering of supporters has grown into one of the most impactful childhood cancer fundraising galas in the region and Braden’s Hope’s largest fundraising event of the year. Every dollar raised supports research projects that are focused exclusively on childhood cancers, many of which are led right here in Kansas City at institutions like Children’s Mercy Research Institute and the University of Kansas Cancer Center.
The Mission Behind the Hope
At Braden’s Hope, the mission is clear: To raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research to advance cures for kids.
By the end of this year, Braden’s Hope will have funded more than $6.7 million in research grants for childhood cancers. These funds support innovative, best-in-class targeted research that is not only essential but often underfunded by traditional sources.
Fast Facts:
- Childhood cancer receives less than 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s budget.
Where It All Began:
Braden’s Hope was born from one family’s unimaginable journey but has since become the story of thousands of families and a community committed to making a difference for kids fighting cancer.
When the namesake of the organization, Braden Hofen, was just three years old, he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer. He fought through grueling treatments and reached remission only to face relapse twice more. Three battles. Each one more devastating than the last. Against all odds, Braden is still here today.
In the midst of Braden’s fight, his mother Deliece Hofen was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her prognosis came with options. Braden’s did not. That realization changed everything.
“Braden’s Hope never started as a mission to help just one child,” shared Deliece Hofen, Founder of Braden’s Hope. “It started with my desperation as a mom who refused to accept that there was no hope for my son or for the children fighting alongside him. That’s when Braden’s Hope was born.”
Looking Ahead
Braden’s Hope is a powerful movement of researchers, donors, families, and community partners united by one purpose: To make a difference for all children and families fighting cancer.
“The Hope Gala is a powerful celebration and a catalyst for continued growth,” shared Kim Stanley, Executive Director of Braden’s Hope. “It’s a beautiful evening that unites our community and fuels life-changing research honoring the children at the heart of our mission. This event inspires a future where every child has hope!”
Whether you attend the Hope Gala, make a donation, or simply share their story, you are part of this mission.
To learn more or get involved, visit bradenshope.org