Friends and Family Children's Museum Luncheon - Raising Financially Responsible Children

The Children’s Museum of Houston and chairs Valeria Burguières and Emily Dalicandro welcomed renowned speaker and author Joline Godfrey to the 2015 Friends and Families Luncheon on March 4, 2015 at the River Oaks Country Club.

With her engaging combination of warmth and wit, Godfrey enlightened guests with tips from her celebrated book, “Raising Financially Fit Kids”. ABC 13 News Anchor Gina Gaston served as Mistress of Ceremony.

Co-Chair Valeria Burguières, Author Joline Godfrey, Co-Chair Emily Dalicandro

The luncheon was a resounding success raising funds for the Museum’s early childhood and parenting programs which focus on building parenting skills, providing information on child development and engaging families in the joy of learning together. The Children’s Museum is dedicated to transforming communities through innovative, child-centered learning with a vision to spark a passion for lifelong learning in all children. Founded in 1980 and housed in a whimsical building designed by internationally acclaimed architect Robert Venturi, the Children’s Museum of Houston offers a multitude of innovative exhibits and bilingual learning programs for kids ages birth to 12 years located in Houston’s Museum District.

Guests noshed on a succulent three-course lunch which included a cheese and fruit plate with gazpacho demi, an ancho chili glazed beef tenderloin salad, and culminating with a mouthwatering milk chocolate and dulce de leche tart (catered by the River Oaks Country Club). The Marian and Speros Martel Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award’s four finalists were recognized at the event. The award is presented annually to an outstanding professional who possesses an exemplary commitment to young children’s education.

At the top of the list of attendees were: Courtney Toomey, Lisa Barksdale, Kristen Berger, Gina Bhatia, Sicily Dickenson, Nancy Almodovar, Carmen Mach, Kim Petersen, Millette Sherman, Winnie Simmons, Kelly Sklar, Marcia Smart, Kathryn Smith, Tiffany Smith, Christie Sullivan, Candice Thomas and more.

Photo Credit: Wilson Parish