Honoring 30 years of JoyRx programs and the people who got us here.
Founded in 1995 by the Ellis family, Children’s Cancer Association began with a bold vision: to bring joy and emotional support to seriously ill children. Over the past 30 years, that vision has grown into free JoyRx programs — now in more than 50 sites across 20 states.
Today, with more children facing serious illness and emotional hardship than ever before, the need for joy is growing. Your support fuels innovation, expands our reach, and ensures that no child has to face illness without the power of joy. Join us!
Thank you to our presenting sponsor
Live From the Heart is our premier gala: a celebration of joy, music, and our mission in the community. Enjoy a cocktail hour, dinner, auction, and an inspiring program that honors our Pearl Anniversary, celebrating 30 years of impact and JoyRx programs.
This year, we’ll celebrate three decades with 30 JoyRx Luminaries, recognizing the leadership and commitment of an incredible group of volunteers with whom we’ve had the honor to share this journey.
We’ll celebrate the power of music to connect and uplift us all, with an exclusive performance from special guest artist Amos Lee!
How to get involved
This event is sold out.
Thank you for your interest in joining our 30th Anniversary gala. Our event is currently at capacity, and new registration is no longer an option for table hosts.
You can make an impact by sharing your support. Thanks for helping us honor 30 years of JoyRx programs in the community.
About the event
Music by Amos Lee
Amos Lee is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter whose unique blend of folk, soul, and Americana has inspired audiences around the world. With a career spanning nearly two decades, his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice have earned him chart-topping albums, collaborations with music legends like Norah Jones and Bob Dylan, and a devoted fan base. A longtime supporter of Children’s Cancer Association, he has previously performed for children in hospitals with JoyRx Music. His return to Live from the Heart underscores his genuine connection to the mission and the power of music to move and connect us all.
Attire: Party-Ready in Purple or Pearls
As we mark 30 incredible years of delivering joy and hope to children facing cancer and other serious illnesses, we invite you to dress in festive, dressy-casual attire.
Whether it’s a splash of our signature purple, a string of pearls in honor of this milestone anniversary, or simply an outfit that makes you feel ready to celebrate — come as your vibrant, joyful self. Let’s make it a night to remember!
Transportation & Parking
Our gala will be held in the Mark Building, located at 1119 SW Park Avenue, on the northern end of the Portland Art Museum campus. Our friends at the Portland Art Museum are going through exciting changes and construction, which might cause some confusion upon arrival. Please look for our event greeter and our sidewalk sign to indicate that you’re in the right place.
Metered street parking is an option around the museum. These spaces range from 1–4 hours and can be paid for using a credit card or the Parking Kitty app.
There are also surface parking lots and parking garages within 1-4 blocks of the Museum. The closest surface lot is located at SW Main Street between SW 10th Avenue and Park Avenue, with dedicated accessible and van-accessible spaces. This lot accepts credit cards or the Reef app.
Public transit is also an option. The bus and streetcar travel directly past the Museum, and the MAX light rail has a stop only four blocks away. TriMet’s Trip Planner gives you step-by-step travel directions from your location by bus, light rail, or streetcar.
Our recommendation? We strongly encourage event attendees to take Lyft, Uber, or a taxi. If you need assistance or have questions, please contact our team.
Schedule of events
6:00 pm | Doors open and cocktail reception begins
7:00 pm | Guests move to Kridell Ballroom for dinner and program
7:45 pm | Program and Performance