OGDEN, UT — The Friends of the Weber-Morgan Children’s Justice Center (CJC) is proud to announce the return of its premier annual fundraising event, the Starry Night Gala, on Saturday, May 2, at The Monarch in Ogden. This year’s theme, “A Run for the Roses,” coincides with the Kentucky Derby, promising an evening of elegance, excitement, and community impact. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Weber-Morgan CJC in its mission to provide a safe, healing environment for children who are victims of abuse and other serious crimes.
An Evening of Entertainment and Purpose: Guests will enjoy a vibrant atmosphere featuring live music by local favorite Standards and Substandards, followed by a gourmet catered meal provided by Union Grill. The evening will be packed with opportunities to support the cause through:
• Silent and Live Auctions: Bidding on unique items and local experiences.
• Opportunity Drawing: A horse-race themed opportunity to win date night packages.
• Keynote Address: A moving presentation from Forensic Interview Specialist Anastasia Pili detailing the critical work the CJC does to help children find justice and healing.
New VIP Experience: For the first time, a limited number of VIP tickets are available. In addition to gala admission, VIP guests will enjoy two hours of unlimited, risk-free gaming provided by All In Gaming, featuring roulette, craps, blackjack, and Ultimate Texas Hold’em.
Dressing for the Derby: In honor of the Kentucky Derby theme, guests are encouraged to lean into the spirit of the day with Derby-inspired attire (think big hats and colorful suits), though the primary goal is community connection. Guests are welcome to wear whatever makes them feel comfortable.
Why Your Support Matters: According to a 2024 CDC report and the National Children’s Alliance, it is estimated that 1 in every 4 girls and 1 in every 13 boys will be sexually abused before they turn eighteen. Most children will not report until adulthood. Sexual abuse makes up about two thirds of our cases. For 35 years, the Weber-Morgan CJC has been on the frontline for child victims. Serving 2,748 children in 2025, the CJC coordinates a specialized team of investigators, attorneys, social workers, and medical professionals to ensure children receive care without secondary trauma. “We believe that everyone deserves a safe childhood. Early intervention makes a lifetime of difference in the healing for child victims,” said Mylynn Felt, Friends Board Starry Night chair.
“The CJC functions as a partnership between public funding and private support,” said Ken Barkema, President of the Friends Board. “It is through the generosity of our community at events like the Starry Night Gala that we can provide the comfort measures, therapy support, and material needs these children deserve.”
Tickets and Sponsorships Individual seats and full tables are currently available for purchase. Businesses looking to make a lasting impact are also invited to explore corporate sponsorship packages, which offer various levels of recognition and benefits.
To purchase tickets, secure a sponsorship, or donate auction items, please visit cjcogden.org.
About the Weber-Morgan Children’s Justice Center
The Weber-Morgan Children’s Justice Center provides a child-friendly atmosphere for the investigation of child abuse. By bringing together a multidisciplinary team of professionals, the CJC ensures that child victims and their families receive the support, justice, and healing they need in a safe, hopeful environment.
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Media Contacts:
Dr. Mylynn Felt
Starry Night Chair
Friends Board Member
Weber-Morgan Children’s Justice Center
mylynnfelt@gmail.com
(801) 309-3104
cjcogden.org
Gina DeSantis
Friends Board Administrative Assistant
Weber-Morgan Children’s Justice Center
cjc-friends@utah.gov
(801) 778-6268
