Four generations of the philanthropic Alhadeff family were celebrated Friday, Oct. 5, as part of the 50th Anniversary Salute to Courage Luncheon, benefitting Kindering.
The luncheon, which was sponsored by Kindering and Pediatrics Associates Inc., took place at the Bellevue Westin Hotel. Representing the Alhadeff family as 2012 Salute to Courage event chairs were Krista & Charles Grinstein and Dina Alhadeff & Jason Long.
“We’re big supporters and huge fans of what Kindering does,” said Krista Grinstein. Her husband, Charles is the grandson of late Kindering benefactor Charlie Alhadeff.
Linking the celebration of four generations of Kindering supporters was headliner Michael Lee, Seattle’s humorous storyteller, entrepreneur and an expert on the nature of today’s four generations in the workplace. The luncheon was hosted by Kindering alumni parent Iain Rooney.
Kindering is the largest neurodevelopmental center in Washington state. The center treats children with delays caused for example by autism, cerebral palsy, chromosomal abnormalities, vision impairment, extraordinary complications of prematurity, or abuse and neglect.
“Decades of research have proven that ages birth to three are the most critical phase of brain development for any child – a one-time opportunity to make a powerful difference,” said Mimi Siegel, Executive Director of Kindering.
In 2011, Kindering helped more than 3,300 children and their families. Services include developmental assessments; physical; speech, and mental health therapies; special education; childcare consultation; nutrition/feeding therapy; outreach to homeless shelters, foster and kinship care interventions; family counseling; and parent education.
This year’s luncheon – which served as an opportunity for the community, families, and providers to come together to meet the children and families whose lives have been changed by Kindering’s special education programs – was attended by more than 400 people and raised more than $500,000. Their previous record was $324,000, with last year’s total being $225,000.
