For Immediate Release December 08, 2020

A Spoonful of Storybook Celebration Connects with Supporters in a Successful Virtual Event


Baltimore, MD (December 8) – Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital’s (MWPH) annual Storybook Gala took a different, yet successful, form this year due to the pandemic. On November 19-21, “A Spoonful of Storybook Celebration” provided a virtual event to supporters in the community, which included a silent auction, raffle and livestreaming dance party with nationally-known DJ Kopec. A large crowd of supporters participated in the three-day event which raised more than $390,000 (net) for the hospital.

"The Spoonful of Storybook Celebration virtual event was a huge success for the hospital, and in a moment when we could definitely use the boost," said Sheldon Stein, president and CEO of the hospital. "We were thrilled that MWPH supporters new and old were able to show up virtually to be part of the special fundraiser. This year's effort focused on raising funds necessary for the creation of The Ability Center, our new 4,000 sq. ft. rehabilitation gym, which will meet the growing needs of pediatric and adolescent patients who've sustained trauma, have disabilities or need post-surgical rehabilitation."

The Ability Center was featured in the livestreamed party, led by DJ Kopec, a Baltimore area DJ who gained national attention this summer for his “quarantine” dance parties. Kopec, whose son received services at MWPH, welcomed existing and new hospital supporters to the live virtual celebration, which by the end had a viewership of 7,500.

“In these challenging times, it was truly extraordinary to see so many people come together in support of MWPH,” said Alison Cohen, Gala Chair and Mt. Washington Pediatric Foundation Board member. “The Spoonful of Storybook virtual event truly gave everyone a taste of how MWPH is ‘Practically perfect in every way’. Our incredible gala committee and the dedicated hospital staff put their hearts into making our event a smashing success, and I am proud to have worked alongside them.”

Though the entire event was virtual, the hospital was able to raise nearly $80,000 during the dance party, over $55,000 in the silent auction and over $10,000 in the raffle. Much of this was due to support from committed sponsors, including: M&T Bank, Priority 1 Automotive Group, DF Dent and Company, the Eliasberg Family Foundation, H&S Bakery, Inc., Johns Hopkins Medicine, Kelly Benefit Strategies, Len Stoler Automotive Group, MCB Real Estate and the University of Maryland Medical System.

The event kicked off with a powerful patient video and also included an overview video of MWPH and special thanks from the patients.

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About Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital: Where Children go to Heal and Grow

Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital provides family-focused, integrated care to children with serious, chronic or complex medical needs. Since 1922, the hospital has helped children heal from illness and injury, and now treats more than 8,500 patients each year. The 102-bed hospital is a jointly owned affiliate of The University of Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine and has locations in Baltimore City, Prince George's County, Harford County and in the community.