Press
A magical night of celebration and community
Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation hosts Night of Magic Ball at Inova Children’s Hospital
HERNDON, VA (June 26, 2015) — For more than 150 chronically ill children receiving care at Inova Children’s Hospital in Falls Church, VA, May 29 was a night to remember. That’s when the charitable arm of Northwest Federal Credit Union, the NWFCU Foundation, sponsored the Night of Magic Ball. The Ball is an annual event that gives hospitalized kids and their families a chance to have a prom-like experience in a safe environment.
“Our Foundation began the Night of Magic Ball six years ago to bring prom night to hospitalized teens who might otherwise never go to a prom. Since then, we’ve opened it to patients of all ages, along with their families so everyone can enjoy the festivities,” said Chris McDonald, President/CEO of Northwest Federal. “For lots of young people, this is a highlight of their year, and Northwest Federal is honored to take part along with our Foundation and a growing list of community sponsors.”
Critically ill children don’t often have the chance to attend typical childhood events like after-school parties, high school promos or father-daughter dances. The Night of Magic Ball offers a safe alternative to for them to just be kids, sharing in laughter, dancing, crafts, and games.
Jenny Gross, whose two-year-old daughter, Maggie, is a patient at Inova Children’s Hospital, says the Night of Magic Ball was an experience her family will never forget.
“We had such an amazing time,” Gross said. “It was fun and relaxing, and Maggie really liked all the excitement. Her brothers and sisters had a wonderful time, too. I’m the mother of eight children, and we have never been able to go out together as a family before. The party gave us a much-needed break.”
Gross says this was the second time her family has participated in Night of Magic. “Our kids and the other children attending talked about last year’s event all year long. It was so much fun for them to pick out their own dresses and suits and to know these outfits were just for them. Thank you, thank you to Linda Rogus and the Northwest Federal Foundation.”
During the event, McDonald and Linda Rogus, Executive Director of the NWFCU Foundation, presented a $5,000 donation to the hospital’s Child Life Services to purchase new toys for young patients to use.
“This is such a special evening in the lives of these young patients, as well as others who get to participate,” said Rogus. “It’s gratifying not only to host this event, but also to see the growing number of community organizations whose donations and support help make it successful beyond our expectations.”
In all, 56 Northwest Federal volunteers and their family members worked to make the evening a success. Volunteers also provided a craft table, game area, refreshments, and a photo booth for keepsake pictures.
“We appreciate the NWFCU Foundation team and hope they know what a significant difference they make in the lives of our patients,” said Jamie Gentile, Senior Program Manager, Child Life Services, Inova Children’s Hospital. “The Ball was another unforgettable night that brought joy to our hearts and put a smile on our patients’ faces.”
The safari-themed evening began with patients selecting party outfits just for them. Makeup and hair professionals volunteered their time to get everyone looking their best. Prof. John Kilkenny, Director of Percussion Studies from George Mason University School of Music performed an African drum show as part of the evening’s entertainment, and Electric Entertainment, LLC donated DJ services for guests to enjoy music and dancing.
The NWFCU Foundation appreciates the support of local businesses and organizations that help to make the Night of Magic Ball a success. In addition to Northwest Federal Credit Union, the NWFCU Foundation would like to thank the following for their support this year:
| · Apple Spice Junction |
| · A2Z Picture Booth |
| · Bob’s Discount Furniture |
| · Chick-fil-A Fairfax Circle |
| · Dolce Vita Salon & Spa |
| · Electric Entertainment, LLC |
| · Enterprise Car Sales |
| · GAM® Graphics and Marketing |
| · George Mason University School of Music |
| · Kevin Carter, Re/Max Select Properties |
| · Living Realty, LLC |
| · Moe’s Southwest Grill Baileys Crossroads |
| · Old Navy Manassas |
| · Pastry Xpo |
| · Reel-N-Motion, LLC |
| · Steve LePage Homes |
| · The Corus Group of Long & Foster® |
| · The Weiner Circle |
About the NWFCU Foundation
The Foundation was established in 2004 to promote and manage Northwest Federal Credit Union’s philanthropic activities. The mission of Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation is to strengthen our community through our scholarship, mentoring and youth outreach programs. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permissible by law for those who itemize deductions. For more information, visit www.nwfcufoundation.org.