You don’t have to travel to Louisville, Kentucky, or head down to the Valley to experience the excitement, elegance, and energy of the Kentucky Derby. On Saturday, May 2, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Derby Day comes to Prescott as Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation hosts its 11th Annual Champions for Children: A Triple Crown Affair at the Sam Hill Warehouse in Prescott.
Quickly gaining recognition as one of the community’s most anticipated spring events, the Triple Crown Affair brings together the fashion, thrills, and festive spirit of the Derby for an unforgettable afternoon benefiting local children in foster care.
Photo: Triple Crown event in 2022
Guests can expect an elevated Derby-style experience complete with live streaming of the Kentucky Derby on the big screen, live music from The Wheelhouse (a Prescott favorite), mint juleps, a Best Dressed contest for both men and women, immersive 360° video experiences, a wine pull, silent auction, and the crowd-favorite Photo Finish horse racing game, where the cheers and excitement can be heard across the venue.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to place friendly bets on the race outcome for a chance to win cash prizes, adding to the lively Derby atmosphere.
“This is really shaping up to be our best event yet, and I’m not just saying that because it’s a new year,” said Mona Stephens, Development Director for Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation. “Everything is truly lining up in a powerful way. This year, for the first time, guests will hear directly from former foster youth and foster families, bringing the mission to life in a way that is deeply personal and inspiring.”
A special highlight of the afternoon will include remarks from a former foster youth who is a two-time Olympic qualifier and professional track and field athlete sponsored by Under Armour, sharing firsthand how community support helped shape his journey.
The event will also feature the presentation of the Champions for Children Award, honoring individuals who go above and beyond in service to children in foster care across Yavapai County and Arizona.
Presented by Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation and proudly sponsored by Valor Contracting, all proceeds from the event directly support children currently in foster care and young adults who have aged out of the system but still reside in Yavapai County.
From every drink raised in celebration to every auction item won, each moment of the event helps change the direction of a child’s life.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly, and organizers encourage the community to secure seats soon.
For tickets and event information, call (928) 445-0800 or visit yavapaicasaforkids.org/annual-gala
