Center for Alexandria’s Children to Honor Dana Lawhorne and John Porter at 2026 “Banding Together” Gala
Event takes place Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Oswald Durant Center in Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, VA – The Center for Alexandria’s Children (CAC) will honor two extraordinary community leaders, Dana Lawhorne and John Porter, at its annual Banding Together: A Benefit Concert to End Child Abuse on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Oswald Durant Center in Alexandria. The event brings together local leaders, businesses, and neighbors to raise funds for CAC’s mission to end child abuse and strengthen families across Alexandria.
The Champion for Children Award will be presented to Dana Lawhorne, whose 43-year law enforcement career, including four terms as Alexandria’s Sheriff, has been marked by a deep commitment to community safety, restorative justice, and youth engagement. Known for his compassion toward victims and his relentless pursuit of justice, Lawhorne’s work has strengthened relationships between law enforcement and families, ensuring every child in Alexandria grows up in a safer, more connected community.
The Outstanding Dedication to Children Award will go to John Porter, a lifelong educator and advocate whose leadership has shaped opportunities for generations of Alexandria’s children. From his years as a teacher and principal at T.C. Williams High School to his role as a founding leader of ACT for Alexandria, Porter has inspired collaboration among educators, nonprofits, and civic leaders to build a stronger community rooted in opportunity and care.
“Dana and John represent the very best of Alexandria,” said Melissa Riddy, CAC Board Chair. “Their work has touched generations of families and built the foundation for a stronger, more compassionate community. We are thrilled to honor them for their service and heart.”
“Banding Together reminds us what can happen when a community refuses to look away from its most daunting challenges and instead chooses to stand together for its children,” said Terri Cheshire, Executive Director of the CAC. “It is a night filled with joy, purpose, and gratitude for those who have built the foundation we stand on today. Honoring Dana and John feels especially meaningful because their work has shaped the very spirit of collaboration that defines Alexandria. They remind us that protecting children is not a job for one person or one agency. It belongs to all of us.”
Sponsorships for the gala are available now, with proceeds directly supporting CAC’s prevention, intervention, and education programs. Individual tickets will go on sale in December.
Learn more at centerforalexandriaschildren.org or contact [email protected].
For sponsorship opportunities, visit centerforalexandriaschildren.org/heartwork-annual-sponsorship-program or contact [email protected].
About the Center for Alexandria’s Children
The Center for Alexandria’s Children is a nationally accredited Children’s Advocacy Center that coordinates Alexandria’s multi-disciplinary response to child abuse. The CAC also leads prevention, education, and family support programs designed to help every child grow up safe, strong, and loved.
