Forgotten Children Worldwide’s (FCW) 2017 Benefit Dinner & Auction on February 25 motivated 344 attendees to give $102,044 in gifts and pledges toward the work of the not-for-profit Christian organization, surpassing the goal of $100,000. FCW addresses childhood poverty and child trafficking worldwide while teaching the love of Jesus.

Patrons and friends of FCW from all over northeast Indiana attended the event.

“Motivated by the saving Gospel of Jesus, the people who support FCW give to bless and meet the needs of children around the world,” says Matt Hartsell, founder and executive director, FCW. “Their gifts help send shipments of clothing to children without clothes, provide funding to our global partners so they can carry out holistic care programs, build orphan homes and safeguard children from the risk of human trafficking. Gifts are used to fight for the oppressed, forgotten and fatherless and to respond to Jesus’ call of mercy.”

The evening’s guest speaker was singer/songwriter George Dennehy, a uniquely talented individual, born to Romanian parents who left him in an orphanage because he was born without arms. His presentation challenged those in attendance to focus on victoriously overcoming life’s obstacles. He has released a CD of original music titled “Have my Heart.”

The event was emceed by Curtis Smith, Director of Community Outreach, Parkview Health.

The event was at the Wells County 4-H Building, 1240 4-H Park Road, Bluffton, Ind.