Hope in Action: Inside Joya’s Spring Gala & Auction

Joya Child & Family Development celebrates 45 years of generosity, community and purpose at their annual spring event By Taylor Shillam | Photos Provided by Joya Child & Family Development

Joya Child & Family Development describes itself as a space to cultivate care and the joy of learning. As a nonprofit organization, pediatric therapy provider, and Spokane’s only Neurodevelopmental Center of Excellence, Joya helps local children thrive, and families feel empowered with its unique blend of special education services and therapies.

In 2026, Joya celebrates 45 years with its Spring Gala and Auction – one of the region’s most anticipated philanthropic events since 1981 – taking place Friday, March 13, at the Spokane Convention Center.

“The Spring Gala and Auction brings together over 500 guests for an evening of fun and inspiration,” shares Krista Caro, Director of Advancement at Joya.

The event is Joya’s largest fundraiser and helps ensure the organization can continue serving any child in Spokane who needs their services, regardless of family income. “Joya is continually enhancing our programs to benefit our community, and funds raised at the Spring Gala & Auction allow us to grow and respond to the evolving needs of kiddos and families here in Spokane,” Krista explains. “The Spring Gala supports every child in our program by allowing us to provide our program to any child or family who needs us.”

Krista emphasizes that guests play an integral role in helping Spokane’s most vulnerable children access the therapies and services they need to reach their potential. “Last year, Joya served over 900 children, and the need for our unique and effective program continues to grow. We’ve added additional programs, like our community groups, which are staffed by our therapists and open to all children in the community free of charge.”

They have also launched Joya JumpStart, which provides speech-language therapy services for children ages 3 to 5. Krista highlights the success of Joya’s comprehensive therapy model. “Last fiscal year, over 64% of children served by Joya reached their age-appropriate milestones at or before age three, forgoing the need for special education services in their school districts,” she shares. “By comparison, the national average is 42%. We are changing outcomes for children who are often given dire diagnoses through a personalized, comprehensive program of assessment, therapy, education, and support.” More specific stories are shared on Joya’s website at Joya.org.

“Joya’s Spring Gala & Auction features a beautifully curated silent auction during our festive cocktail hour,” Krista says. “Guests are encouraged to bid on items, catch up with friends and acquaintances, play games, and participate in raffles in a bright, celebratory environment at the Spokane Convention Center.”

Once seated for dinner, the evening continues with inspirational stories shared by Joya families and a live auction featuring getaways, special dining experiences, sports packages, and more. Throughout the night, attendees have the opportunity to raise their paddles in support of Joya’s mission, all while enjoying the energy of a room filled with like-minded community members.

Community involvement is essential to the gala’s success. “Since 1960, Joya – originally the Spokane Guilds’ School – has provided exceptional therapy services to families in Spokane,” Krista explains. “With our long history, nearly everyone in the community knows someone whose life has been touched by Joya’s programs. Knowing our community supports current and future families is incredibly meaningful.”

The gala is also meaningful for donors, volunteers, and attendees alike. “It’s heartfelt, positive, and supports an organization that serves so many children and families right here in Spokane,” she shares.

Supporting the Spring Gala & Auction goes beyond attending an event. “By supporting Joya, you are helping ignite hope, empower children and families, and establish lifelong skills,” Krista says. “We provide exceptional pediatric therapy and support services, engage families, and remove financial barriers. Our community is built on inclusion, encouragement, and lasting connections. Supporting the Gala means standing alongside Joya in this critical mission.”

Whether through bidding in the auction, raising a paddle, or simply attending to show support, the Joya Spring Gala & Auction offers a meaningful way to celebrate community, generosity, and the bright futures of children throughout Spokane. 

Visit Joya.org to learn more about Joya’s services and how to support their Spring Gala & Auction.