Down & Derby supports Children’s Healthcare | Milton News

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Ga. — Around 500 guests at the second annual Down & Derby raised more than $255,000 for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta May 4 at Chukkar Farms in southern Cherokee County. 

The nonprofit Milton Friends of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hosted the event, inspired by the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. 

The nonprofit launched in 2022 as a part of a larger network of Friends groups in and around Metro Atlanta. Milton Friends of CHOA hold fundraisers throughout the year. 

Proceeds raised through sponsorships, ticket sales and auctions support three donor-funded programs at CHOA, Specialized Summer Camps, the Artist-in-Residence Program and the Music Therapy Program.

Milton mom and committee member Jennifer Lux saw the importance of the programs first-hand. Her 7-year-old son was rushed to Scottish Rite in late February with a severe infection of unknown origin.

“To see my son, and so many other children in crisis, perk up at the opportunity to express themselves through art and music, was something I will never forget,” she said. “These creative outlets broke up a truly stressful time for our family, and I’m so grateful to Children’s and the donors who fund these programs for helping to turn my son’s frown upside down.”

In addition to the two hospital patient programs, Down & Derby proceeds also support specialized summer camps for current and former pediatric patients who are managing complex health and medical conditions.

Shelley Massey, event co-chair, said she loves seeing how excited her children get at the opportunity to attend summer camp. 

“But for many families, that rite of passage isn’t an easy one to cross, because their children are navigating medical hurdles that make traditional camps impossible to attend,” she said. “Thanks to CHOA, hundreds of children can enjoy a fun summer camp experience that is tailored to their specific health needs.” 

In addition to funds raised through sponsorships and ticket sales, Down & Derby guests had plenty of opportunities on site to support the cause. Live and silent auctions boasted more than $140,000 in donated items ranging from luxury trips overseas to top-shelf dining experiences. Guests had a chance to participate in a pre-race Derby raffle before cheering for their chosen horse as the race was televised live on a jumbotron screen.

The sponsorship of several local businesses and generous support from the community made the 2024 Down & Derby possible, organizers said.