Center for Alexandria’s Children Raises $146K

Alexandria, VA – February 2026 – On February 21, the Oswald Durant Center was transformed into a vibrant glam rock experience as the Center for Alexandria’s Children raised more than $146,000 at its 3rd Annual Banding Together: Benefit Concert to End Child Abuse. More than 300 community leaders, partners, and residents filled the room for an evening that combined emotional storytelling, electric performances, and civic celebration in support of protecting Alexandria’s children.

The program also honored three distinguished local leaders whose lifelong commitments have strengthened safety, opportunity, and justice for families across the city.

The Champion for Children Award, presented by Joseph Collum, was awarded to Dana Lawhorne, whose 43-year career in law enforcement, including four terms as Alexandria’s Sheriff, has been defined by a deep commitment to community safety, restorative justice, and youth engagement. Before his election as Sheriff, Lawhorne spent nearly two decades as a detective with the Alexandria Police Department, handling some of the city’s most complex and sensitive cases, including difficult sex crime investigations. Known for his compassion toward victims and his steady pursuit of justice, he built programs that strengthened trust between law enforcement and families, helping ensure that every child in Alexandria grows up in a safer, more connected community.

The Outstanding Dedication to Children Award, presented by Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter, to his father and Alexandria legend, John Porter. 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 dedicated his career to empowering youth and strengthening the broader community. His vision and mentorship have inspired collaboration among educators, nonprofits, and civic leaders for generations.

The MDT Partner of the Year Award, presented by Mayor Alyia Gaskins, was awarded to Debra Evans, Division Chief for Alexandria’s Sexual Assault Center and Domestic Violence Program. Evan’s leadership and tireless advocacy have set the standard for victim centered care across the community. Widely known as someone who is everywhere, for everyone, all the time, she has devoted her career to ensuring safety, dignity, and justice for Alexandria’s most vulnerable residents, particularly those who have experienced serious and traumatic crimes.

Live performances by Guilty Ghost and the talented young musicians of School of Rock energized the evening, carrying guests from deeply moving moments to full celebration — a reminder that hope and joy are essential components of this work.

Funds raised from the event will directly support the Center’s full continuum of services, including trauma informed forensic interviews for child abuse victims, coordinated multidisciplinary team response, prevention programming through Learn & PlayGroup™, and community education initiatives designed to stop abuse before it starts.

“This evening reflected the heart of Alexandria,” said Terri Cheshire, Executive Director of the Center for Alexandria’s Children. “We shared the emotional reality of this work, the measurable impact we are making, and the deep commitment this community holds to protecting children. The generosity in the room was extraordinary. This work is only possible because of the unwavering support of our sponsors and supporters.”
Melissa Riddy, Board Chair of the Center for Alexandria’s Children, added, “Our community continues to show up for children in powerful ways. The success of this event demonstrates that Alexandria understands both the urgency of this work and the responsibility we share to ensure children are safe, heard, and supported. We are proud to stand behind this mission.”

The Center for Alexandria’s Children serves as the City’s accredited Children’s Advocacy Center and convenes the multi-disciplinary team response to child abuse investigations. In 2025, the Center served 169 child abuse victims and hundreds of children and caregivers through prevention and education programming.

The organization extends deep gratitude to its staff, Board of Directors, Gala Committee, sponsors, performers, and the many community members whose generosity made the evening possible.

For more information about the Center for Alexandria’s Children or to support its mission, visit centerforalexandriaschildren.org.