Nearly 300 Austin-area friends of Upbring gathered on February 7 for the 2026 “Make a Difference” Gala, a Mardi Gras-themed party with a serious purpose: improving the lives of children, families, and young adults across Central Texas.
We celebrated supporters with storytelling, life music, and dancing—and our Austin community brought their most heartfelt philanthropy. This extraordinary generosity will ensure that no child has to face life’s hardest moments alone.
Emcees Rev. Dr. Jerry and Terry Kieschnick led with their personal story—a connection to Upbring going back more than 50 years when they adopted their son through the organization.
Supporters came together with gifts totaling more than $238,000, and we’re so grateful for this outpouring of love. Funds raised will go to Foster In Texas (FIT), BeREAL Supervised Independent Living (SIL), and New Life Children’s Center. Attendees also responded to a special appeal for Austin-area programs with a record-breaking $104,350.
Together, we’re strengthening families and communities. Thank you, Central Texas!