An Evening of Impact and Inspiration

Join Smart Start of Forsyth County for an unforgettable evening where purpose meets celebration. Raising Forsyth 2026 honors more than three decades of leadership in early care and education while celebrating the partners and champions who ensure every child in Forsyth County receives the strong foundation they deserve. Set against a vibrant 90s-themed backdrop featuring Prince’s iconic music, this year’s celebration promises an electrifying blend of mission-driven fundraising and high-energy entertainment. Experience live performances, including a special Prince tribute showcase, while connecting with community leaders, philanthropic partners, and early education professionals who are shaping the future of our community.

Your Support Changes Lives

Each year, Smart Start of Forsyth County supports more than 13,000 children and families through essential services that keep children learning and families stable:

• Food & Basic Needs: Non-perishable foods, formula, and our expanded Diaper Bank for infants and toddlers
• Emergency & Subsidized Childcare: Rapid-response emergency childcare and expanded subsidies so parents can work and children can thrive
• Family Resource Center: Children’s and adult clothing, parenting resources, developmental screenings, and referrals—all in one welcoming place
• Early Educator Support: Coaching, training, and classroom resources that raise quality for our youngest learners

“When my hours were cut, Smart Start stepped in with diapers, groceries, and emergency childcare so I didn’t have to choose between going to work and caring for my son. We felt seen, supported, and hopeful.”
— Parent, 2024 SSFC Family Resource Center participant

Sponsorship Opportunities

Your partnership directly impacts children and families in our community:

• Champion for Children — $15,000: Underwrites a month of emergency childcare and stocks the Diaper Bank with 40,000+ diapers
• Family Futures Sponsor — $10,000: Expands Family Resource Center services with food, clothing, and hygiene kits for hundreds of families
• Early Educator Leader — $7,500: Funds professional development for early educators, improving learning for hundreds of children
• Ready Kids Advocate — $5,000: Provides childcare subsidy support and case management for families navigating crises
• Bright Futures Supporter — $2,000: Equips classrooms with literacy and social-emotional tools for kindergarten readiness

All sponsors receive event recognition, on-stage acknowledgment, and a post-event Impact Report detailing exactly how funds were used and the lives you helped change.

Event Highlights

• VIP Reception: Exclusive pre-event networking with board members and community leaders (Chairman’s Circle sponsors)
• Live Entertainment: Prince tribute performance featuring iconic hits like “Party Like It’s 1999,” “Purple Rain,” and “When Doves Cry”
• DJ Entertainment: We will have a live DJ spinning the best of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s
• Full Dinner Service: Delicious catering in an elegantly themed atmosphere
• Silent Auction: Unique experiences and curated packages benefiting Smart Start programs
• Mission Moments: Inspiring stories from families whose lives have been transformed

Get Involved

Become a Sponsor: Contact Marvin Fulwood III at [email protected] to confirm your sponsorship or tailor a partnership aligned with your community impact goals.

Individual Tickets: Available for purchase through our website

• Early Bird: $100 (limited time)
• Regular Admission: $125

Save the Date

Mark your calendars for Friday, April 10, 2026, and join us for a night of music, purpose, and lasting impact. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for every child in Forsyth County.

For more information about Raising Forsyth 2026, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, please contact:

Marvin Fulwood III
Smart Start of Forsyth County
[email protected]