collinsville.com

GODFREY, IL — Refuge is honored to announce that former NCAA and NFL
athlete Gaelin Elmore will serve as the featured guest speaker at its annual Build a
Refuge Fundraising Dinner on April 30, 2026, at Lewis and Clark.

Elmore, who grew up in the foster care system, is known for his powerful story of how
resilience, community, and belonging can change the story of a child’s life. His journey
is marked not only by athletic achievement but also by his high school coach, who
believed in his potential, as well as the personal hardship and healing that ultimately
shaped Elmore’s passion for helping others find belonging.

“Gaelin’s message aligns so beautifully with the heart of Refuge,” said Erin Bickle,
Executive Director of Refuge. “We believe one loving adult can change the trajectory
of a child’s life. His story reflects that truth.

Join us for an inspiring evening at the Build A Refuge Fundraising Dinner:
Location: Lewis and Clark Community College, 5800 Godfrey Road, Godfrey, 62035
Date: April 30, 2026
For more information, visit www.refuge4kids.org or boston@refuge4kids.org.

The annual dinner is Refuge’s largest fundraising event of the year and plays a critical
role in sustaining services that are offered free of charge to the community. Proceeds
from the evening will directly support counseling sessions, caregiver groups, and
trauma-informed programming that bring hope and healing to local children and
families.

Refuge is a non-profit founded in 2014 that serves Madison County children and caregivers who
have experienced trauma through child abuse, neglect, and exposure to violence and substance
abuse. Refuge provides hope and healing through counseling and therapy, caregiver support
and education, and community awareness