More than 600 people joined together at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott on March 25 to support ForKids and its work to end homelessness for families and children in Greater Hampton Roads. Presented by The Dragas Companies, the ForKids 16th annual Children’s Art Auction raised a record $939,000. The auction is an essential source of revenue for ForKids’ $6.7 million operating budget that funds housing and services for approximately 200 families with more than 400 children each day.

This year’s theme was “Happily Ever After,” inspired by favorite fairytales. Attendees dressed either in “black tie” or as their favorite storybook character. Big Bad Wolves, Little Red Riding Hoods and Wicked Witches all bid on unique and luxury packages including a Platinum Toyota Sequoia donated by Checkered Flag. But the heart of the event was the auction of art by ForKids kids, framed beautifully by local framers.

Children’s art at this year’s event broke records twice in one night. First, “Champions of Love,” a collaboration by nationally recognized local sculptor Matt Fine and ForKids kids D’Juan and Desmond, sold for a record $16,000. Five minute later, “Autumn Tree Vase,” a collaboration by Jaliyah and Robin Rogers at the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio based on artwork by 12-year-old Jaliyah, entitled “Autumn Tree,” was purchased for $21,000 after a fierce bidding war. Other local professional artists and art programs also pitched in to work with ForKids kids on unique collaborative pieces that were sold at the auction, including Jean Peacock and The Williams School.

Rick Rumble of WNOR-FM99 served as the evening’s master of ceremonies, and John Marshall returned for the 16th year as auctioneer. Singing Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten,” ForKids kids Bre’Anna and Regina Lee kicked off the night, bringing the entire crowd to their feet to sing along.

“It is just flat out amazing what this community did for our families on Saturday night,” ForKids Chief Executive Officer Thaler McCormick said. “This community clearly cares about our kids and wants to make a difference in their lives.”

For more information about ForKids, visit www.ForKidsVA.org or call 622-6400.