2020 Avivo Night of Champions sets new records

Avivo Night of Champions raised more than $85,000 this year, thanks to more than 200 guests! Funds raised will be used to ensure Avivo can provide everyone with the chance to live well and work well.

Minnesota Vikings legend Robert Smith shared his personal story of addiction and perseverance, and WCCO-TV’s Reg Chapman emceed this year’s annual celebration and fundraising event, which recognizes community champions making a difference in the lives of the people Avivo serves.

The night was a musical treat, including performances from OutLoud! And the musicians of MacPhail, as well as songs from The Foshays.

Attendees also heard inspiring words from Theresa, a graduate of Avivo’s recovery programs and career education. Theresa shared her story of new-found happiness and independence, as she’s found housing, employment, and more.

This year’s Avivo Champion Award recipients included a mixture of businesses and individuals, all honored for their significant involvement in Avivo’s programs and services, as well as the support they give to help individuals and families succeed:

COMPAS is a Minnesota arts nonprofit, and they were honored for their partnership with Avivo, which helped us expand our arts access and experiences for those living with mental illness. Thanks to their partnership, nearly 200 community members experienced art, many for the first time.

Graco and the Graco Foundation were honored for their longtime commitment to Avivo and Avivo’s mission. Since as far back as the 1980s, and as recently as this year, Graco and the Graco Foundation have supported Avivo’s mission through a combination of volunteerism and key donations.

Steve Ludwig was honored for being a longtime volunteer at Avivo’s St. Cloud service location. He assists with job interview and career prep by volunteering with Avivo’s Job Club program, which he’s done since 2013.

The Jaeger Family was honored for their major roles in helping Avivo. Dan, Doug, and Meg Jaeger have all contributed in different ways over a number of years. With the help of the Jaeger Family, we’ve been able to remodel housing for mothers and families in our recovery programs, we’ve hosted successful events, and we’ve had amazing leadership on our board of directors.

Avivo Night of Champions wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our event sponsors: Clear Channel Outdoor, Xcel Energy, Associated Benefits and Risk Consulting, Coulee Bank, Libby Law Office, and Parsons Electric.

Stay tuned for details on Mission + Mingle, as well as our Achieving Dreams Fundraising Breakfast, which is scheduled for Thursday, October 1.