Local beloved author Kelly Corrigan was invited several years ago to participate on an authors’ panel benefiting literacy where she and five other writers spoke for 10 minutes each to a group of about 1,500. The event raised $1.5 million dollars. Never before had she witnessed the incredible fundraising power of writing and words. “I might be able to pull this off in my own community,” she thought. And boy has she ever. Her Notes & Words annual spring benefit for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland has raised millions since its debut in 2010. The uplifting and inspiring event, held at Oakland’s historic Fox Theater, is always highly anticipated by both event attendees and the featured stars. It’s one of my favorite events of the year, and I am once again proud to be a Rock Star sponsor. This year’s event is on May 13, and the lineup is great: Musicians include Daveed Diggs of ‘Hamilton’ fame, Seattle band ‘The Head and the Heart,’ and sensational a cappella ensemble ‘Vocal Rush.’ Writers include: Kelly – naturally, humorist and satirist Calvin Trillin, and bestselling author Michael Lewis.

Kelly chose UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland as the beneficiary of her event because of its impact upon the entire Bay Area. It is one of only five American College of Surgeons Pediatric Level 1 trauma centers, and is ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals in nine pediatric specialties. 3,500 doctors, nurses, researchers and other dedicated staff care for more than 75,000 patients each year at the Oakland campus. For the past two years, I have been honored to sit on the Board of the children’s Advisory Council. I too have had the opportunity to witness “the magic” of this incredible institution.

Notes & Words 2017 is going to be yet another fantastic night in support of this treasured hospital that does so much good, and I’d love to see you there. Tickets can be purchased at www.notesandwords.org.