Shine Bright this Holiday Season at 14th Annual Ignite Hope Walk

PHOENIX – Ignite the spirit of hope for patients and families at Phoenix Children’s Hospital at the 14th Annual Ignite Hope Candlelight Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 13. Gather with thousands of community members at North High School for a spirited celebration, then take part in a candlelit walk to Phoenix Children’s Thomas Campus, where lights will glow outside the hospital windows, spreading warmth and hope to patients.

The Ignite Hope tradition was initiated in 2012 when friends and family of Katie Wagner, a 15-year-old patient at Phoenix Children’s who had been diagnosed with cancer, organized a candlelit vigil outside her hospital window. Katie herself took part in the inaugural Ignite Hope walk. She sadly passed away the following year in September 2013. Despite this loss, the candlelight tradition continues as a tribute to her memory, aiming to bring light and hope to the lives of patients while also rallying the community to raise funds for Phoenix Children’s.

“Ignite Hope is a truly special experience that makes an incredible impact during the holiday season,” said Steve Schnall, senior vice president and chief development officer at Phoenix Children’s Foundation. “The support of our community brings joy and connection to those in the hospital, making the season brighter for patients and families.”

The event features a festival of food, entertainment, photos with Santa, kids’ activities, and more. When the sun sets, Santa will lead participants on a candlelight walk to the hospital. The community will help light the beloved Phoenix Children’s holiday tree, keeping the lights of healing and hope shining bright.

  • What: Phoenix Children’s Ignite Hope Walk
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 13
  • Where: Starting Point: North High School Courtyard, 1101 E. Thomas Rd.
  • Schedule:
    • 3 p.m. – Festival
    • 5:30 p.m. – Walk starts
    • 6:10 p.m. – Event program
  • Registration:
    • Now – Nov. 30: $20 adults and $5 youth
    • Dec. 1 – Dec. 13: $40 adults and $10 youth

More information is available at PCHIgniteHope.org.

This beloved tradition allows participants who fundraise to direct their donations to specific areas of the hospital, such as the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI), Behavioral and Mental Health, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD), Center for Cleft and Craniofacial Care, Center for Fetal and Neonatal Care, or Center for Heart Care. Donations can also support other important programs fully funded by philanthropy, including Therapeutic Arts, Volunteer Services, and many more.

Ignite Hope would not be possible without generous community support: Angry Crab Shack, Camelback Toyota, Pizza Hut, and Valley Buick GMC Dealers.

About Phoenix Children’s Foundation

Phoenix Children’s Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering philanthropic support from individuals, families, organizations and corporate partners committed to Phoenix Children’s mission: to advance hope, healing and the best health care for children and their families. One of the nation’s leading pediatric health systems, Phoenix Children’s offers 170+ family-centered care programs that are fully or partially funded by philanthropy. There are many ways to give to Phoenix Children’s Foundation to invest in the health of children. Please visit givetopch.org for more information.