A Record-Breaking Night, A Lasting Impact for Children
Speak Up for Children 2026 raises more than $195,000 to strengthen legal advocacy for vulnerable children across Forsyth and Guilford Counties.
On Friday, October 2, 2026, friends, supporters, and community partners gathered at Forsyth Country Club for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of community and the importance of giving children a voice.
Speak Up for Children 2026 raised more than $195,000, setting a new fundraising record for Children's Law Center of Central North Carolina (CLC) and making this year's event one of the most successful in the organization's history.
These funds will directly support CLC's flagship Custody Advocacy and Education Advocacy Programs, helping ensure that vulnerable children in Forsyth and Guilford Counties have access to quality legal advocacy at no cost to their families. Through this support, more children facing domestic violence and high-conflict custody disputes can have an independent advocate looking out for their safety and best interests, while students experiencing educational challenges can receive the guidance and support they need to protect their rights and access appropriate educational opportunities.
The generosity of our supporters also helps CLC strengthen its network of volunteer attorneys, expand its capacity to serve children in need, and connect families with critical community resources. Every dollar raised represents an investment in protecting children, strengthening families, and building a safer, more supportive community.
More than a fundraising milestone, the evening was a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when individuals, businesses, and community leaders come together around a shared commitment: ensuring that vulnerable children have someone standing up for their safety, well-being, and future.
An Evening Worth Remembering
Throughout the evening, guests had opportunities to connect with fellow supporters, participate in the auction, and learn more about the important role CLC plays in the lives of vulnerable children.
A highlight of the program was the Call to Give, when attendees were invited to make a direct investment in CLC's mission. Their enthusiastic response, combined with generous sponsorships, auction participation, and contributions from supporters beyond the event, helped make this the most successful Speak Up for Children in the organization's history.
Behind the record-breaking total is something even more meaningful: the opportunity to reach more children, strengthen existing services, and ensure that CLC remains a trusted resource for families facing some of life's most difficult circumstances.
Watch the Highlights from Speak Up for Children 2026
Relive some of the memorable moments from this year's celebration and see the community spirit that made the evening so special.
Turning Generosity into Meaningful Advocacy
The funds raised through Speak Up for Children directly support CLC's two flagship programs: the Custody Advocacy Program (CAP) and the Education Advocacy Program (EAP). Together, these programs provide critical legal advocacy to children and families throughout Forsyth and Guilford Counties, at no cost to those served.
Through the Custody Advocacy Program, CLC staff and volunteer attorneys serve as Guardians ad Litem for children involved in domestic violence protective order and high-conflict custody proceedings. These attorneys provide an independent voice focused on each child's best interests, helping courts make informed decisions about children's safety, stability, and well-being.
Their work extends well beyond the courtroom. Attorneys gather information from families, educators, healthcare professionals, and other individuals involved in a child's life; identify concerns affecting the child's welfare; and make recommendations designed to protect the child's best interests. When appropriate, they also help connect children and families with community resources that can provide additional support.
CLC's Education Advocacy Program helps protect the rights of students in public schools, particularly children with disabilities and those facing challenges accessing the educational services and opportunities they need. Through legal guidance, education, and collaboration with families and community partners, EAP works to help children receive the support necessary to succeed in school.
Every contribution to Speak Up for Children helps sustain these essential programs and strengthen CLC's ability to respond to the needs of children throughout our region.