2026 Golden Key Gala: A Night of Giving, Hope, and Community Impact

On October 10, 2026, Children's Hospital Association (CHA) welcomed supporters, sponsors, healthcare leaders, and volunteers to the Golden Key Gala at Mill District Event Spaces in Minneapolis.

The masquerade-themed celebration brought the Twin Cities community together for an evening of connection, inspiring stories, recognition, and generosity—all in support of programs that provide essential care and resources to children and families at Children's Minnesota.

From heartfelt remarks by healthcare leaders to an energetic live auction, the evening highlighted one powerful message: When a community comes together, we can help create brighter futures for children and families.

An Evening of Connection and Celebration

The Golden Key Gala began with guests gathering on the rooftop for cocktails, conversation, and an opportunity to connect before the evening's masquerade celebration.

As attendees entered the event, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Theresa Malone, President of Children's Hospital Association, officially welcomed guests and opened the evening, recognizing the supporters and community partners who make CHA's mission possible.

The celebration offered an opportunity to reflect on CHA's impact, strengthen relationships, and recognize the people whose generosity helps ensure children and families receive care beyond traditional medical treatment.

A Powerful Reminder of the Importance of Community

One of the evening's most meaningful moments came from Emily Chapman, MD, President and CEO of Children's Minnesota, who spoke about the enduring strength of community support.

Reflecting on CHA's history, Dr. Chapman recognized the generations of volunteers, sponsors, and donors who have stepped forward to help children and families navigate uncertainty.

Her remarks linked the organization's beginnings during the Great Depression to the vital role CHA plays today.

"If we can stay focused not only on the medical needs, but the human needs of a child and a family, we will never go wrong."

Dr. Chapman emphasized that families facing difficult medical circumstances need more than clinical expertise. They need reassurance, compassion, and a community that stands alongside them.

Her message reinforced the importance of CHA-supported programs that address children's physical, emotional, and social needs.

Through financial contributions, volunteerism, and ongoing partnerships, supporters help families feel seen, understood, and never alone.

Beyond Medical Care: The Impact of the Runaway Intervention Program

Guests also heard a moving presentation highlighting the impact of the Runaway Intervention Program (RIP), a longstanding program CHA has supported through the Midwest Children's Resource Center at Children's Minnesota.

Developed more than 20 years ago to address gaps in services for vulnerable adolescents, the Runaway Intervention Program provides personalized, community-based care to young people who have experienced circumstances such as abuse, exploitation, or housing and family instability.

Unlike traditional healthcare visits, the program meets young people where they are. Nurse practitioners build consistent relationships with participants over 12 months, providing medical care, emotional support, and connections to schools, families, and community resources.

That continuity helps young people build trust with adults and access services that might otherwise be difficult to obtain.

During the presentation, guests learned how these relationships can transform lives.

One particularly moving story described two sisters who had experienced significant instability. After receiving support through the program, the older sister became an advocate for her younger sibling, helping her access care and support. Their experience showed how compassion and consistent care can create an impact beyond one individual.

As shared during the presentation: "We get to watch them grow into compassionate adults who in turn look to help others."

The story reminded attendees that children are more than the challenges they have experienced. With appropriate support and meaningful relationships, they can build confidence, strengthen connections, and move toward healthier futures.

Programs like RIP show why philanthropic support matters to Children's Hospital Association's work.

Learn more about CHA-funded programs and services.

Honoring Dr. Mark Hudson with the Walter Ramsey Award

Another highlight of the Golden Key Gala was presenting the Walter Ramsey Award to Mark Hudson, MD, Medical Director of the Midwest Children's Resource Center at Children's Minnesota.

The Walter Ramsey Award honors professionals who have dedicated their careers to serving others, made a meaningful impact on pediatric healthcare through their partnership with CHA, and exemplified the organization's core values of integration, innovation, impact, and involvement.

Named in honor of Dr. Walter Ramsey, who founded St. Paul Children's Hospital, the award celebrates leadership and service that strengthen healthcare for children and families.

Dr. Hudson's work in child abuse pediatrics and his commitment to caring for vulnerable children reflect the importance of compassion, advocacy, and collaboration. His recognition was a meaningful moment for attendees and an opportunity to celebrate the healthcare professionals whose work makes a lasting difference.

Congratulations to Dr. Hudson on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for your continued dedication to children and families across Minnesota.

Paddles Up: A Live Auction Filled with Energy and Generosity

The excitement continued as Liz took the stage to lead the Golden Key Gala's live auction.

With enthusiastic bidding, raised paddles, and cheers throughout the room, guests demonstrated the generosity that makes events like the Golden Key Gala possible.

The auction was more than an opportunity to bid on exciting experiences and items. Every contribution represented an investment in programs that support children and families when they need it most.

The energy throughout the room reflected a shared belief in the importance of giving back.

From the first bids to the final moments of the auction, attendees' generosity made the evening memorable and meaningful.

Thank You to Our Sponsors, Donors, and Volunteers

The Golden Key Gala would not have been possible without the dedication and generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, guild members, and community partners.

To our event sponsors: Thank you for investing in our mission and helping bring this special evening to life. Your partnership supports our continued efforts to provide essential programs and services for children and families at Children's Minnesota.

To our donors and auction participants, thank you for raising your paddles, opening your hearts, and demonstrating what is possible through collective generosity.

To our volunteers, thank you for the time, energy, and dedication you bring to our mission throughout the year.

And to everyone who attended, thank you for being part of a community committed to helping children and families thrive. Your support extends far beyond one evening. It helps build connections, strengthen resources, and make essential care more accessible to those who need it.

Together, We Hold the Key to Brighter Futures

For more than 90 years, Children's Hospital Association has helped strengthen pediatric healthcare through community generosity and volunteerism.

Founded in 1933, CHA began with a group of women committed to ensuring children had access to needed medical care during the Great Depression.

Today, that commitment continues through funding for innovative, inclusive, and essential programs at Children's Minnesota.

CHA has provided more than $27 million in support over its history, helping advance programs that address the needs of the whole child and family.

The 2026 Golden Key Gala celebrated this legacy and reminded us that the work continues.

Together, we hold the key to brighter futures for children and families across Minnesota.

Learn More About Children's Hospital Association

Children's Hospital Association is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting programs and services that enhance pediatric care at Children's Minnesota.

Through fundraising, volunteerism, and community partnerships, CHA helps provide essential resources that support children's medical, emotional, educational, and social needs.

Want to make a difference?

Learn about CHA and its mission to support children and families.

Explore CHA-supported programs and discover how community generosity helps children thrive.

Get involved through volunteering, guild membership, fundraising, or corporate sponsorship.

Support CHA with a donation to help extend care and resources to more children and families.

Thank you for helping us CHAnge lives!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Key Gala?

The Golden Key Gala is a fundraising event hosted by Children's Hospital Association in Minnesota. The event brings together donors, volunteers, sponsors, and community leaders to support programs and services benefiting children and families at Children's Minnesota.

Where was the 2026 Golden Key Gala held?

The 2026 Golden Key Gala took place on October 10, 2026, at Mill District Event Spaces in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event featured a masquerade theme, guest presentations, community recognition, and a live auction.

What programs does Children's Hospital Association support?

CHA supports programs at Children's Minnesota that provide essential services beyond traditional medical treatment. These include the Runaway Intervention Program, Midwest Children's Resource Center, child life services, caregiver education, mental health support, and other programs addressing the needs of children and families.

How can I support Children's Hospital Association?

Individuals and businesses can support CHA through donations, volunteer opportunities, fundraising guilds, corporate partnerships, and sponsorships. Visit www.cha-stpaul.org to learn more.