Press
Night of Magic Ball: a night to remember!
Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation hosts event at Inova Children’s Hospital
HERNDON, VA (September 22, 2014) — On June 13, more than 100 patients receiving care at Inova Children’s Hospital in Falls Church, Va., attended the Night of Magic Ball – an event giving chronically ill patients and their families an evening away from the stresses of being in the hospital.
“This is the fifth year of making memories and making a difference for young patients and their families,” said Linda Rogus, Executive Director of the Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation, which sponsors the annual event. “We are so proud to organize and host such a special experience.”
The NWFCU Foundation is the charitable arm of Northwest Federal Credit Union, a 150,000-member financial institution based in Herndon, Va..
Night of Magic is a time of laughter, dancing, crafts, games, food, prizes and fun for those in attendance. These special guests often miss out on childhood events like father-daughter dances, after-school parties and even their high school proms. The Night of Magic Ball is a way of creating an evening where they can forget about their medical concerns, if only for a few hours. And its benefit is significant, having a positive, long-lasting effect on both the patients and their families.
“Thank you so much for another incredible Night of Magic Ball! You and your team continue to exceed all expectations and put together an unforgettable night,” said Jamie Gentile, Senior Program Manager, Child Life Services, Inova Children’s Hospital. “The patients, families and staff will take these memories with them forever, as a shining moment during their hospital experience. I hope you know what a difference you make.”
This year’s event – a carnival theme – was coordinated with the help of 55 volunteers and many generous donors from the surrounding communities (see Sidebar). It started with patients selecting party attire from an assortment of new dresses and suits that were theirs to keep. Next was hair and make-up, completed by a team of volunteer professionals. Then, attendees met with the ringmaster for entry into the carnival ball, where a magician opened the evening with an amazing show.
The night included music with a DJ, and dance professionals teaching the latest moves and line dances. Volunteers also provided a craft table and game area. There was plenty of food and beverages, and photo booths provided both “posed” prom photos and dress-up photos. As the evening ended, patients were able to select a special keepsake from a gift table, and all attendees received goodie bags.
One of the night’s highlights was a check presentation from the Foundation. Rogus, joined by Northwest Federal CEO/President Chris McDonald, presented $3,000 to Child Life Services at Inova Children’s Hospital to purchase electronic games to be used by hospital patients.
Those wanting to learn more or get involved with the 2015 Night of Magic Ball may contact NWFCU Foundation at (703) 925-5092.
About Northwest Federal Credit Union 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.
Sidebar:
Drawing on a Community of Support
June 13 marked the fifth Night of Magic Ball, a family-fun evening for young patients receiving treatment at Inova’s Children’s Hospital in Falls Church, Va. The annual event is presented by Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation. Each year, the Foundation calls on many businesses and individuals to play a key role in the event by making generous contributions and volunteering their time. We applaud their participation – for without them, this special night would not be possible. Thank you to the following supporters – many of whom are multi-year donors:
Gold Stars:
DigitalMailer, Inc.
Electric Entertainment, LLC
GAM Graphics and Marketing
Herndon High School Staff and Students
Living Realty, LLC
Northwest Federal Credit Union
Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation
NWFCU Member Solutions and
Records Departments
NWFCU Human Resources and
Organizational Development Department
Northwest Mortgage Lending
Reel-N-Motion
Silver Stars:
Carolina Brothers Pit Barbeque
Kevin Carter, ReMax Select Properties
Chick-fil-A Fairfax Circle
The Corus Group of Long and Foster
Northwest Title and Escrow LLC