AUSTIN,TX – More than 1,300 Austinites gathered at the Hilton Austin on Saturday, Oct. 24, wearing their comfiest pajamas and fuzzy slippers for PlayBingo presented by Alpha School. The annual fundraiser raised $1.26 million for the Center for Child Protection, Travis County’s only nonprofit involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children,
Hosted for its 23rd year by the Friends of Christopher Guild— a women’s volunteer group dedicated to supporting the Center—the event was emceed by KXAN Chief Meteorologist Nick Bannin and former news anchor Melissa Lowe. Guests enjoyed playing eight rounds of bingo, raffles, and a silent auction featuring top prizes such as a Gucci Mercato Bag and diamond bangle bracelet from Diamonds Direct, spa packages, and luxury getaways.
“A community is only as strong as its most vulnerable members, and there is no one more vulnerable than a child who has experienced something traumatic,” said Mary Cheryl Dorwart, President of the Friends of Christopher Guild. “PlayBingo shows what happens when our community chooses to be a part of the solution so that no child has to face their darkest moments alone.”
“It’s so amazing to see how each year PlayBingo brings the Austin community together to support children and their families when they are going through their toughest times,” said Vanessa Maldonado, Chief Development Officer at the Center. “This incredible turnout and the funds raised today ensure our forensic interviews, medical exams, and therapy services remain 100% free of charge for every family who walks through our doors.”
The 24th annual PlayBingo, is set for Saturday, Oct. 23, 2027. Tables sales and next year’s theme will be announced at a later date. For more information, visit playbingoATX.org or follow the Center on social media @center4cp.
About the Center:The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center and the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. For over 30 years, the Center has provided a safe, child-friendly facility where children impacted by abuse or violence can receive trauma-informed services, including recorded forensic interviews, therapy, and medical care. The Center’s vision is to end the cycle of child abuse through education, advocacy, and community support, which is why the Center also offers prevention education and training programs. All Center services are free of charge and offered in both English and Spanish. To learn more visit centerforchildprotection.org.
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