TWIGs (Terrific Women in Giving)

Terrific Women in Giving - TWIGs, the auxiliary of Dayton Children's, was founded in 1965. TWIG chapters have played an important role in helping Dayton Children's provide quality care for children throughout the region. Today, Dayton Children's is supported by 25 TWIG chapters that total over 400 members. TWIG members, known as "Twigs", include daughters, mothers, grandmothers and teenagers.

Each TWIG group hosts fundraising events throughout the year and provide numerous in-service volunteer hours at Dayton Children's. Since 1965, TWIGs have raised over $8.3 million for Children's.

Sugarplum Festival of Trees

The major TWIGS fundraising project is the annual Sugarplum Festival of Trees held each November. This year the Sugarplum Festival of Trees will take place November 18-20 at the Presidential Banquet Center in Kettering. This holiday extravaganza is a Dayton tradition and features a spectacular holiday Gala, amazing shopping at the Boutique and Nutcracker Sweets, a fun-filled fashion show at the ladies' luncheon and Breakfast with Santa. Learn more about how to get involved here.

Gem City Jam and Hoopla

TWIGs also host the Gem City Jam and Hoopla held each August at NCR Country Club. This golf outing features the head basketball coaches at Wright State University and the University of Dayton. There is a lively silent and live auction and guests are welcome to attend. The 2011 Gem City Jam and Hoopla will take place August 22.

Annual Support

At the January 2011 annual meeting, TWIGs presented Charlie Foley, chair of Dayton Children’s Board of Trustees, with a check for $257,000. The donation completed the TWIG's $500,000 pledge to support the Pediatric Trauma and Emergency Center renovation and expansion project.

It was announced that the Auxiliary has pledged $500,000 over the next three years to provide funding toward the Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Care Endowment. This endowment was created to enhance and already family-focused cancer care program that will connect patients with multiple resources dealing with care, treatment, education, support groups and other resources. Annual interest generated by this endowment will eventually fund a social work position, a child life specialist specifically assigned to the cancer program and patient/family educational materials.