Child Crisis Arizona, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being and safety of children and families, will host its 46th annual signature fundraising gala – a Yellowstone-themed event – 6 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at the JW Marriot Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, 5402 E. Lincoln Drive.

The Saddle Up! gala will feature ranch décor inspired by the Paramount Network show as well as the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, and the attire is cowboy chic, with guests encouraged to “dress like a Dutton” on a big night out.

There will be a gourmet dinner and signature cocktails as well as interactive entertainment options, including mechanical bull rides, photos with Burrito the burro, casino and western carnival games, a whiskey tasting bar and the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind cowboy or ranch hat – complete with jewels, feathers, leather or ribbons – at the Child Crisis Arizona Hat Bar hosted by Scottsdale’s Rancher Hat Bar. There will also be live country music from Ryan and the Renegades throughout the evening, dancing and a luxe silent auction, as well as the chance to hear the first-person account of a member of the local community directly impacted by Child Crisis Arizona’s services and ample opportunities to learn more about the organization’s impact each day.

“Saddle Up! will raise funds for critical programming needed to support all that we currently do – we served 42,888 individuals in 2023 to give perspective – but also help us introduce new programming throughout 2024,” said Torrie A. Taj, CEO of Child Crisis Arizona. “This includes our Extended Foster Care and Kinship programs as well as Child Crisis Arizona’s recent partnership with Arizona’s early childhood agency, First Things First, to provide resources for every baby born in Arizona by delivering free Parent Kits to hospitals and birthing centers.”

According to Taj, the event will also support Child Crisis Arizona’s recent acquisition of Whispering Hope Ranch.

“In early January, Child Crisis Arizona, announced its acquisition of Whispering Hope Ranch, a respected provider of therapeutic and recreational programs for children and youth. With this strategic move, Child Crisis Arizona is poised to enhance its commitment to delivering comprehensive services that address the diverse needs of vulnerable children and families in Arizona,” said Taj.

Saddle Up! tickets start at $400 and tables start at $4,000. Individuals or business interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Justin Duran at justin.duran@childcrisisaz.org.

Visit childcrisisaz.org for more information.