Tom and Magaly Hirst Honored with 2019 Champion for Children Award

ALEXANDRIA, VA- The Center for Alexandria’s Children (CAC) honored community philanthropists Tom and Magaly Hirst with its Champion of Children Award at the 10th annual CAC Gala on Thursday, April 4 before a gathering of community leaders and supporters.

“Tom and Magaly Hirst and the Mason Hirst Foundation have made a profound impact on Alexandria’s children,” former Champion for Children Honorees and Honorary Gala Co-Chairs, Rob Dugger & Lori Morris commented in making the award. “They exemplify a deep sense of caring for community. Since 2012, their foundation has awarded $658,500 in matching grants to support area non-profits. Through ACT for Alexandria’s Spring2ACTion online giving campaign, our community non-profit organizations have been able to double that amount. That’s over one million dollars for causes that are near and dear to their hearts.”

The Hirsts’ support has provided invaluable support for the Center’s work coordinating the first response to child abuse and neglect cases, specialized Learn & Playgroup programs for children age 0-5 years and child sexual abuse prevention training programs educating adults throughout the City.

“We are grateful we can play a small part in ensuring Alexandria’s abused and neglected receive protection from harm, legal assistance and healing services,” Mr. and Mrs. Hirst commented. “The impact abuse and neglect creates in childhood lasts a lifetime. Our ultimate goal is prevention through training and education. But, for those who have already been impacted, we strive to help them find closure, heal and move on with their lives.”