By Christine Price
Columnist
Amidst all the stress, anxiety, craziness and bad news, my goal is to spotlight and share the good news in our community.
A runway with a heart! Birthright Lights Up the Night proves that compassion never goes out of style. This annual fundraiser brings the community together to quite literally light up the night for a good cause, blending fashion, fun and heartfelt purpose into one memorable evening.
Birthright Lake, Inc. is a local nonprofit quietly doing lifechanging work for mothers and their babies. Lights Up the Night reflects that mission perfectly. Birthright supports moms in need and reminds us all just how powerful a little generosity – and a lot of heart – can be. The event is a celebration of kindness with impact woven into every detail.
Birthright Lights Up the Night will be held on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. at LaMalfa Banquet Center, 5783 Heisley Road, in Mentor. The evening promises food, fun and fashion – all in support of moms and little ones in our community.
“Birthright Lights Up the Night shines a light on what Birthright Lake Inc. stands for: nonjudgmental compassion, dignity and support for women, children and families throughout our community,” said event co-chair Amy Sabath.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the evening is the fashion show – the only one of its kind in town. Birthright moms and supporters will take to the runway as models, along with several little ones making their debut in adorable outfits from the Birthright store.
Women’s fashions will be presented by The BRuSH Boutique in Mentor. Owners Megan Balaban and Monica Stark will use their talents for styling and pairing pieces to create a fast-paced and entertaining show.
Men’s fashions will once again be presented by Tichnor’s Men’s Clothier. John Sandy, sales manager, has been part of Birthright’s annual fashion show for more than 20 years. His professionalism, fashion sense and Tichnor’s quality clothing are guaranteed to deliver a first-class presentation.
Hair and makeup for the models will be done by Ladies & Gentlemen Salon.
Beyond the runway, the evening will include raffle baskets, a 50/50 drawing, surprise mystery bags, sideboards and a silent auction. New this year, attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase Lights Up the Night lighted cocktail glasses – both a souvenir of the evening and a fun way to support Lake County moms and babies.
The silent auction will feature a wide variety of items, including Playhouse Square tickets, a four-pack of club seats to a Cleveland Cavaliers game, a bourbon basket, a golf package and several pieces of fine art. The High-End Raffle will include a dozen items valued between $400 and $1,300, such as a gift card tree, instant lottery ticket tree, designer handbags and a FOUNT tote.
Support for moms and babies
“The essence of Birthright is love – love that walks alongside a mother, lights her path and cares for her baby with dignity and hope,” said Janice Silvaroli, Birthright’s executive director. “Every mother who comes to Birthright is someone’s neighbor, seeking reassurance that she is not alone. Lights Up the Night allows our community to be that light, and the funds raised directly support families right here at home.”
Proceeds from the event help provide critical essentials not covered by government assistance, including formula, diapers, underwear and basic health items for families in Lake County.
Birthright’s impact is significant. In 2025 alone, more than 856 women and children visited Birthright. Infant and toddler visits totaled 1,349, with 185 visits from pregnant women. Birthright welcomed 120 new babies and provided supplemental formula to 411 infants. Each number represents a life touched—a mother reassured, a baby cared for and a family strengthened through compassion and essential support.
“We are excited to continue the tradition of Birthright’s annual Lights Up the Night fundraiser and cannot thank our volunteers and donors enough for their incredible support,” said event co-chair Jeannie Jeckering. “This fundraiser ensures Birthright remains a beacon of hope for expectant mothers and families in Lake County.”
Birthright’s no-cost, onsite services include community resource counseling, maternity clothing, new and gently used infant and toddler clothing, formula and breastfeeding supplies, diapers and pull-ups, baby food and care items such as strollers, highchairs, toys and pack-and-plays.
Tickets are on sale now. To purchase tickets or make a donation, visit www.birthrightlake.org.
“Birthright saved me and my kids,” said Tasha, a Birthright client.
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