15th Annual Benefit Luncheon

The annual luncheon is KidVantage’s signature fundraising event, held at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue, with emcee Angela Poe Russell. Now in its 15th year of bringing together the community to help kids, the event’s success is critical to our ability to keep kids fed, safe, and warm.  

This year’s theme—The Colors of Hope—expresses the impact of KidVantage services, signified by our brand colors of teal and orange.  Here you can find help and hope.

Angela Poe Russell, Emcee

Angela Poe Russell, Playwright and Producer, is returning to emcee our Thrive event for the 5th year.  Her compassion, humor, and professionalism shine on the Thrive stage.

Angela Russell is a veteran TV journalist and storyteller, known for her in-depth reporting and compelling interviews. Most recently, she co-hosted the award-winning television shows “Evening” and “Take 5” on KING 5 in Seattle; but her career has taken her all over the country, from the deep south to the northeast. Angela’s work in TV news earned her a National Gracie Award and, previously, a Northwest Emmy Award. She has spent the last decade expanding the reach of her storytelling through diverse mediums, including film. Currently, Angela is a Playwright in Residence at Seattle Public Theatre. She is also a contributing host and editorial writer for KIRO Newsradio.

Special Guest Speaker, Nikki Gane

Meet Nikki Gane, a visionary and compassionate leader dedicated to empowering women
through her nonprofit, Dignity for Divas. With lived experience, she brings a profound
understanding of the challenges faced by many, inspiring positive change in the lives of
countless women.

With a heart fueled by empathy and a determination to make a difference, she embarked on the
journey of creating Dignity for Divas in 2012. This organization serves as a beacon of hope,
advocating for the dignity and well-being of women who have faced adversity. Nikki envisions a
world where every woman, regardless of her past, is embraced with respect, support, and the
tools to rebuild her life.

Beyond the organizational realm, Nikki Gane is a source of inspiration in her community.  She is not just a founder but a mentor, a role model, and a
living testament to the transformative power of resilience.

Event FAQS

Q:  Can I attend if I have not been asked by a table captain?

A:  Yes!  Click on this link to register.  There is no charge to attend the event – during the event there will be an opportunity to donate in support of the work of KidVantage.

Q:  What is a table captain?

A:   Being a table captain is a great way to share your commitment to helping local families with your friends and colleagues. KidVantage relies on the success of the luncheon to meet the needs of more than 15,000 children who are low-income or experiencing homelessness or family disruption in our community. Volunteers are the heart of KidVantage, and our table captain volunteers are vital for the success of this energizing and important event by inviting friends or colleagues to the luncheon.   There is no cost to captain a table.  Click here to sign up!

Q:  What if I have dietary restrictions:

A:  We offer a vegan/GF option, and can accommodate other dietary restrictions.  Email Shannon at shannonw@KidVantageNW.org by Monday, November 3. 

Q:  I can’t attend the event but still want to donate.  Can I do that?

A:  Yes, thank you! If you cannot attend and would still like to support KidVantage, you can click on the button below to make an online gift, or send a check to:  KidVantage, PO Box 712, Issaquah, WA 98027, Attn: Thrive.