National Celebration of Joy 2025 Link copied!

“Hard times require furious dancing!” – Alice Walker

Established in 2023 on CDF’s 50th Anniversary, the NATIONAL CELEBRATION OF JOY is CDF’s signature fundraising gala — an evening of inspiration, joy, and purpose lifting America’s children. The event brings together changemakers, child advocates, and supporters to celebrate a shared commitment to child well-being and raise vital support for Children’s Defense Fund.

During the Celebration, CDF honors Advocates for Joy who champion policy, build power, and strengthen programs for children and youth. In 2025, we will honor veteran congressman and thirty-year partner with CDF, the Honorable Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Cristina Jimemez, co-founder of United We Dream and best-selling author of Dreaming of Home, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and a rising youth advocate.

Brittany Packnett Cunningham, host of UNDISTRACTED, will emcee the awards program. Dove Award-winning gospel recording artist, Brian Courtney Wilson, will offer soul-stirring sounds to sustain our movement for children.

The Schuyler Ballroom of The Hamilton Hotel 
1001 14^th St NW 
Washington, DC 20005 

November 5, 2025
6:00 p.m. Reception; 7:00 pm Dinner

*The NATIONAL CELEBRATION OF JOY is the centerpiece of our two-day American Youth Policy Forum, powered by CDF, November 5-6, at the MLK Memorial Library. See details at the bottom of this page below to join the critical policy conversation!

Institutional Advocate for Joy Award

Join us for the American Youth Policy Forum.

Powered by Children’s Defense Fund, the American Youth Policy Forum (AYPF) gathers policymakers, advocates, non-profit leaders, and educators for a two-day convening focused on the impact of politics and policy on America’s children and young people. Come be a part of this informative and inspiring space November 5 and 6.

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Become a Sponsor!

Learn about National Celebration of Joy sponsorship opportunities and register as a sponsor below.

Register as a Sponsor