Joyce Meyers (left in photo) kicked off the Blue Jean Bash on September 12 by surprising Randi Lewis (at right) with the Clothes To Kids of Denver Founders Award. Joyce and fellow co-founders Lesa Butler, Gail Cerny and Mary Overington selected Randi for this award in celebration of her many years of service to Clothes To Kids.

Randi became involved with Clothes To Kids in 2012 when she joined the Community Action Council, and later she served on our board of directors. During her three-year tenure as board chair, she used her management and legal skills to spearhead several complex projects. Randi continues to serve on the board and has been very helpful to us in her new position at the Employers Council. Her enthusiasm and passion for our mission are inspiring, and it has been an honor to work with her these past eight years.

Mari Anne and Greg Imhoff joined neighbors Scott and Liz Markowitz for outdoor cocktails, takeout from Maggiano's and treats from Bash sponsor Suga Me Sweet. The friends watched the Bash video together and shared memories of previous years - everything from the early galas at the EXDO to sprinting into 2017's Bash during torrential rain!

Nikki Gordon and Jeanne Corn celebrated the Blue Jean Bash with a distanced, yet fabulous cocktail party and shoe drive in celebration of back-to-school season. The hostesses and their friends collected more than 130 pairs of brand new tennis shoes. Our students are going to feel great when they walk into their classrooms this year!

In honor of this year's Bash, Debbie Jones turned to the most pandemic-appropriate activity she could think of – baking! Friends who made a Bash donation of at least $25.00 received a scratch-baked loaf of Debbie's famous orange-pineapple zucchini bread or cranberry orange muffins, delivered right to their home. What a delicious way to celebrate!

Mary Valenti and Don Parsons celebrated by spreading out across their beautiful back yard with a circle of friends and neighbors. Perfect weather and an impressive assortment of happy hour appetizers and drinks made for a fun and very tasty gathering!

Brian and Karen Wendling hosted an intimate dinner on their back patio, followed by socially-distanced drinks and games. In attendance were Eric and Teri Mason, Steve and Megan Fry and Tim and Taryn Wright - all long-time supporters of Clothes To Kids. Cheers to this fabulous group for their many years of involvement and strong support of our mission.

Clothes To Kids of Denver board member Camille Cox and executive director Valerie Lunka wrapped up the Blue Jean Bash on September 20 with a brunch in Val's beautiful backyard. Fortunately for those gathered, Camille is the Vice President of Sales for Champagne Laurent-Perrier. Needless to say, the bubbles were in plentiful supply!