2026 B.A.B.Y. Gala Recap
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Photo Credit: Tashia Jean Photography
The 2026 B.A.B.Y. Foundation Gala: A Night That Will Change Lives
Because of you, more than $270,000 was raised to support children and families facing medical crises in Northern Colorado.
Some evenings are measured by attendance. Others are measured by the impact they leave behind.
The 2026 B.A.B.Y. Foundation Gala was one of those unforgettable nights.
Together, our community raised more than $270,000 to support medically underinsured families across Northern Colorado. Every dollar represents something far greater than a donation. It represents hope, relief, and the promise that no family has to face a child's medical crisis alone.
To every sponsor, donor, volunteer, attendee, and supporter who made this evening possible: Thank you.
Because of your generosity, parents will spend less time worrying about medical bills and more time focusing on what matters most- their children.
More Than a Fundraiser
The Gala is our largest fundraising event of the year, but it's about so much more than raising dollars. It's about celebrating resilience and honoring families who have faced unimaginable challenges with courage and grace. It's about recognizing the volunteers who quietly give their time and hearts to this mission.
And it's about bringing an entire community together around one simple belief:
When a child is fighting for their health, no family should have to fight alone.
Every story shared that evening reminded us exactly why this work matters.
Introducing The Emmy Fund
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the introduction of The Emmy Fund.
Created in honor of Emmalyn Still, The Emmy Fund is a dedicated fund within The B.A.B.Y. Foundation that provides financial assistance to children battling cancer and the families walking beside them.
Emmalyn's courage, joy, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire everyone who knew her. Through The Emmy Fund, her legacy will continue to bring hope and relief to families facing one of life's most difficult journeys.
Honoring Extraordinary Courage
Each year, the Wyatt Award recognizes a child whose bravery reminds us all what true strength looks like.
This year, we were honored to recognize Gabriella as our 2026 Wyatt Award recipient.
At just four years old, Gabriella's life changed dramatically after what was expected to be a routine procedure revealed a rare medical condition. Through countless appointments, treatments, and uncertainty, she has faced every challenge with remarkable resilience.
Her story is a beautiful reminder that courage doesn't depend on age.
Celebrating Hearts That Serve Others
One of the most emotional moments of the evening came as we presented the 2026 Alyiah Volunteer Memorial Award.
Created in memory of Alyiah, this award honors volunteers who embody her kindness, joy, compassion, and selfless spirit.
This year, we did something we've never done before. Instead of honoring one volunteer, we recognized two women whose impact is impossible to separate.
Christina and Annabelle Rusco.
Their journey with The B.A.B.Y. Foundation began as recipient family members.
Today, they are leaders, advocates, and dedicated volunteers who continue turning their own experience into hope for countless other families.
Their story reminds us that sometimes the people who once received support become the very people carrying the mission forward.
Now, relive the magic with us! Scroll down to see some of our favorite moments from the Gala.
Thank you, Tashia Jean Photography, for capturing our evening.
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