Caring For Life to host 12th annual Mom Prom to support families in need

Taylor’s Version Mom Prom ‘24 Left to right board members: Kayla Wise, Julie Dalton, Darbee Harrington, Katie Walker
- Taylor’s Version Mom Prom ‘24 Left to right board members: Kayla Wise, Julie Dalton, Darbee Harrington, Katie Walker
- Photos submitted to the Times Observer Roaring ‘20s Mom Prom ‘19 from a past event
The event, which begins at 7 p.m. is one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers of the year – and it’s all for a cause that touches the heart of the community. This year’s theme, “Famous Females,” invites women aged 21 and over to dress as their favorite icons – be it from history, Hollywood, music, or politics for an evening of dancing, appetizers, a cash bar, and classic dance floor hits spun by returning favorite DJ Josh Bigelow.
“Mom Prom is not just a fun night out – it’s a way for our community to directly support families facing the unimaginable challenge of having a seriously ill child,” said Darbee Harrington, a longtime CFL board member. “As a community, we can make a real difference.”
While dressing up is encouraged, it’s not required, and attendees don’t have to be mothers to attend. The evening is a joyful kickoff to Mother’s Day weekend, dedicated to women supporting women, all while helping to raise funds for CFL’s critical mission.
Founded in 1991, Caring For Life is a United Fund nonprofit that provides emotional, financial, and practical assistance to Warren County families with a child facing a serious illness. These diagnoses can range from congenital heart defects to cancer and Type I diabetes. In 2024 alone, CFL helped 22 local families and reimbursed $38,152 in expenses–covering everything from medical co-pays and equipment to travel, meals, and lodging during out-of-town hospital stays.

Photos submitted to the Times Observer Roaring ‘20s Mom Prom ‘19 from a past event
CFL also distributes emergency care packages filled with essentials like toiletries, coloring books, and children’s books to families sent to hospitals unexpectedly. Additionally, the organization spreads joy through holiday surprises like visits from Santa and family-centered events, including an Easter egg hunt held earlier this spring.
“I’ve served on the CFL board of directors for 16 years in many different capacities,” Harrington said. “This cause is close to my heart, quite literally, as I’ve seen up close the strength and courage it takes for a ‘family’ to cope with childhood illness. As a mother, I believe it’s important we lift each other up, especially during trying times. CFL is a means for moms to support other moms and families of all varieties. As our tagline says: As a community, we can make a difference.”
Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased online at www.caring4life.net or by calling 814-730-7515.