Assistance League of Phoenix held its 52nd Annual Celebration of Caring Gala, “Big Dreams & Blueprints” on March 10, raising funds for children.

The event, held at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix, raised over $560,000 to benefit children in need throughout the Greater Phoenix area, according to a press release.

“We’re so appreciative of the generous support that we received from our corporate and foundation partners, our members and volunteers, and many friends in the community who helped to make this a record-breaking year,” said Aimee Runyon, CEO of Assistance League of Phoenix.

The funds will support Operation School Bell, the nonprofit’s signature program, which provides school clothing, shoes and hygiene items for thousands of children living in poverty.

Other programs include providing basic need items for newborns born into poverty, providing teddy bears for children to hold as a calming and security aid during a crisis and providing books to K-8 students and schools with high rates of poverty and local social service agencies.

This year’s honoree was Jim Swanson, president and CEO of Kitchell Corporation. He received the Excellence in Philanthropy award. The employee-owned enterprise is focused on charitable endeavors in the areas of education, pediatric healthcare and social services; helping dozens of organizations in communities where they have operations. Swanson, along with the rest of Kitchell leadership, encourages community service, caring, and helping neighbors in times of need, the press release stated.

Assistance League of Phoenix Vice Chair Susan Frank was event chairman. Frank, along with the gala committee, organized an evening of entertainment, auction, networking and philanthropy for professionals and businesses from across the Valley.