2026 EmPower Luncheon
This year’s EmPower Luncheon marks a powerful milestone: the 20th anniversary of the C.A.R.E. Center (Child Advocacy Resources and Empowerment)-the only Child Advocacy Center in Waukesha County and a lifeline for children and families facing unimaginable challenges.
Join us in celebrating this milestone and support the incredible work that takes place every day.
For two decades, the C.A.R.E. Center has been a place of safety, hope, and empowerment. When a child experiences abuse, fear, and trauma can take hold immediately. The C.A.R.E. Center meets them at that critical moment, offering a calm, child-centered space where they are heard, believed, and protected. Children share their account of the abuse or neglect just once with a specially trained forensic interviewer, while law enforcement, child protective services, medical providers, and family Advocates can work together in real time to ensure the child’s safety and provide compassionate support.
In 2025 alone, the C.A.R.E. Center conducted 282 forensic interviews and 80 on-site medical exams, providing children and families with the care and protection they urgently needed. As one of only 15 Child Advocacy Centers in Wisconsin, the C.A.R.E. Center is nationally accredited by the National Children’s Alliance, meeting the highest standards for trauma-informed care, child safety, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
As a program of The Women’s Center, the C.A.R.E. Center is part of a comprehensive network of services that supports survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking across Waukesha County. All proceeds from this event benefit every program and service of The Women’s Center.
By attending this year’s luncheon, you are standing with children, honoring 20 years of child advocacy impact, and investing in a future where children are protected. Your support makes a life-changing difference- one child, one family at a time.
We can’t wait to see you!
EVENT DETAILS
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | Denim Day
The Baird Center 405 W. Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203
11:00 AM – Registration Opens
11:00 AM-12:00 PM – Networking, Online Auction, Raffles, Wine Pull
12:00 PM – Lunch & Program
1:30 PM – Program Ends
SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES
Sponsorships start at just $500 and provide many opportunities to promote your business. Contact Melissa Vrtis at [email protected] or 262.522.3813 for questions or more information.
PARKING & RIDESHARE
The Women’s Center will again offer bus transportation from our facility in Waukesha to the Baird Center in Milwaukee. Visit the event website for details.
TRIGGER WARNING
This event will discuss sexual abuse and assault and may be triggering for some people. This event is not suitable for those under the age of 18. If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues mentioned above and want support, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 262.542.3828.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3543643-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3543643-2
