Event: DVLF’s TOY

Courtesy of David Evangelista

For the kids in the HIV and AIDS pediatric unit at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the holidays can sometimes feel anything but festive. That’s why for the fifth year in a row, Delaware Valley Legacy Fund (DVLF) is celebrating TOY, its annual holiday fundraising event on Dec. 3 (7 p.m.) at Marketplace Design Center. For every ticket purchased to benefit DVLF, guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for the children who will spend the holidays in the hospital.

John Moeller, executive director of DVLF, says each year the event brings together more than 400 LGBT and straight allies to raise funds and to collect toys for kids. “The fabulous night includes open bar, light fare, silent auction and DJ Carl Michaels providing the music,” says Moeller.

This year, special guest and stylist to the stars – David Evangelista, one of the nation’s leading hair, makeup, and fashion experts – will also be attending the event. TOY sponsors will get to meet the television personality during an exclusive VIP reception an hour before the main event gets started on Saturday.

Karen Gross, a local cabaret performer, songwriter, comedian and friend to the LGBT community, will also be performing live.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for a child or adolescent (ages two to 17) for distribution at CHOP this season. If it’s one of the only good deeds you do this year, it’s worth it.

“The TOY committee really pushed themselves to add new elements to the event that would further enhance our holiday fundraiser,” says Ron Lucente, TOY co-chair.

TOY, Dec. 3, 7 p.m., Marketplace Design Center, 2400 Market St., 215-563-6417.